Skip to main content
Glama
maflot

Allen Brain API MCP Server

by maflot

download_cell_reconstruction

Download a cell specimen's morphological reconstruction as an SWC file to your local path. Specify the specimen ID to retrieve its 3D morphology data.

Instructions

Download the morphological reconstruction of a cell specimen as an SWC file to a local path.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
specimenIdYesCell specimen ID.
filePathNoLocal file path to save the SWC file (default: reconstruction_{specimenId}.swc).
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden but only states the basic action. It does not disclose behavioral traits like overwrite behavior, error handling, or permissions needed for local file write, which are critical for a download tool.

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 a single, front-loaded sentence with no extraneous words, effectively communicating the core action and resource.

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

Completeness3/5

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

For a simple download tool, the description is moderately complete. It covers the main action but misses details on side effects (file overwrite), return value (likely file saved or error), and network requirements. With no output schema, more context would be helpful.

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 coverage is 100% so baseline is 3. The description adds value by specifying the file type (SWC) and that it is a morphological reconstruction, which enhances understanding beyond the schema. However, no extra details on parameter formats or constraints.

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 the tool downloads a morphological reconstruction (SWC file) for a cell specimen, specifying the file format and destination. This distinguishes it from sibling tools like download_cell_ephys_data or download_annotation_volume.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool vs alternatives such as get_morphology_features. Prerequisites, context, or when not to use it are absent, leaving the agent without selection criteria.

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

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/maflot/allenbrain-mcp'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server