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kmaneesh

BioPython MCP Server

by kmaneesh

fetch_pdb_structure

Retrieve protein structure data from the Protein Data Bank using a PDB identifier and optional file format. Returns structure information and file location.

Instructions

Fetch a protein structure from the PDB database.

Args: pdb_id: PDB identifier (e.g., '1ABC') file_format: File format - 'pdb' or 'cif' (default: 'pdb')

Returns: Dictionary containing structure information and file location

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pdb_idYes
file_formatNopdb

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only mentions the return type (dictionary with structure info and file location) but does not discuss side effects, authentication, or rate limits. It is insufficient for a fetch operation's transparency.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is concise and front-loaded, with three sentences covering purpose, parameters, and return type. Every sentence serves a purpose without redundancy.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's simplicity (2 parameters, output schema present), the description covers the essential information. However, it could provide more detail about the returned structure information, but the output schema likely fills that gap.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 0%, but the description adds examples for pdb_id ('1ABC') and clarifies file_format values ('pdb' or 'cif') with default behavior. This adds value beyond the schema's type and default fields.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states 'Fetch a protein structure from the PDB database' using a specific verb and resource. It differentiates from sibling tools like fetch_uniprot or fetch_genbank by specifying the PDB database.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives. While the name is self-explanatory, no guidance on when not to use or alternative tools is provided.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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