Skip to main content
Glama
mahynotch

ChimeraX MCP Server

by mahynotch

color_structure

Color atoms or residues by chain, bfactor, rainbow scheme, or apply a named/hex color to visualize structural features.

Instructions

Color atoms/residues by scheme (chain, bfactor, rainbow) or a named/hex color. For electrostatic or hydrophobicity coloring use the dedicated surface tools. Aliases: colour, paint, set color, recolor.

Example: color_structure("#1", "chain")

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
specYes
color_schemeYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It states the core action (coloring) but does not disclose any side effects, permissions, or behaviors beyond that. Adequate for a visual-only operation but lacks depth.

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?

Three concise sentences: main action, usage exclusion, aliases and example. Every sentence adds value and the key information is front-loaded.

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 coloring tool with no output schema, the description covers the main purpose and provides basic guidance. However, parameter details are lacking (spec format, exact color_scheme values), so completeness is moderate.

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

Parameters2/5

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

Schema has 0% description coverage. The description mentions 'scheme (chain, bfactor, rainbow) or a named/hex color' for color_scheme and implies spec is atoms/residues, but does not specify format for spec (e.g., selection syntax) or valid hex color formats. Partial compensation but still vague.

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?

Clearly states the verb 'color', the resource 'atoms/residues', and the method 'by scheme (chain, bfactor, rainbow) or a named/hex color'. Distinguishes from sibling tools like electrostatic/hydrophobicity surface tools.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

Explicitly states when not to use: 'For electrostatic or hydrophobicity coloring use the dedicated surface tools.' Provides aliases and an example, giving clear context for when this tool is appropriate.

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/mahynotch/chimerax-mcp'

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