Skip to main content
Glama
microbiomedata

nmdc-mcp

Official

get_data_objects_by_pfam_domains

Retrieve biosamples matching given PFAM protein domains, along with associated activities and data objects.

Instructions

Use this tool to find biosamples that contain specific PFAM protein domains. Returns structured data about biosamples, their activities, and data objects. Perfect for finding samples with particular functional capabilities.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pfam_domain_idsYes
biosample_limitNo
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden for behavioral disclosure. It only states the tool 'finds' and 'returns' data, implying a read operation, but does not mention idempotency, side effects, authentication needs, or rate limits. For a zero-annotation tool, more behavioral context is needed.

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

Conciseness3/5

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

The description is concise at three sentences, but the second sentence ('Returns structured data...') is somewhat redundant with the first, and the third ('Perfect for...') adds little. It could be more direct.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given two parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is incomplete. It does not explain the output structure, how results are ordered, or how 'biosample_limit' works. It also fails to contrast with the sibling tool dealing with PFAM domains, leaving an agent uncertain about selection.

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

Parameters1/5

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

With 0% schema description coverage, the description should compensate but does not. It does not explain the format or expected values for 'pfam_domain_ids' (e.g., Pfam IDs? names?) nor clarify 'biosample_limit' (e.g., per domain or total). The phrase 'specific PFAM protein domains' is too vague.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states it finds biosamples with specific PFAM domains and returns structured data about biosamples, activities, and data objects. It uses a specific verb 'find' and names the resource, but does not explicitly distinguish from the sibling tool 'fetch_and_filter_gff_by_pfam_domains'.

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 implies when to use the tool ('find biosamples with specific PFAM domains', 'Perfect for finding samples with particular functional capabilities') but lacks explicit guidance on when not to use it or alternatives.

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/microbiomedata/nmdc-mcp'

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