codon-optimize

Codon-optimize protein sequences for expression via IDT's API, outputting JSON or FASTA.

27|4|Updated Feb 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/farnunglab/benchaid --skill codon-optimize
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: codon-optimize
Source: https://github.com/farnunglab/benchaid/tree/main/skills/codon-optimize
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/farnunglab/benchaid --skill codon-optimize

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires requests, python-dotenv, and includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Codon optimization automates translating protein sequences into DNA sequences optimized for expression in target hosts using IDT's API, reducing manual design time and error.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Optimize protein sequences from amino acids or NCBI accessions for expression in organisms such as insect, E. coli, mammalian, or yeast, and for vectors like 438, 1-, or pVEX.
  • Accept raw sequences or accessions, with optional residue ranges and vector-based organism inference to tailor codon usage.
  • Provide a CLI workflow to generate an optimized DNA sequences suitable for cloning, with configurable gene name and output formats.

Quick Start

Provide a protein sequence or accession and run the codon optimization CLI to generate an IDT-optimized DNA sequence.

Frequently Asked Questions about codon-optimize

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I codon-optimize a protein sequence for E. coli expression?

Codon optimization translates protein sequences into DNA sequences tailored for expression in a target host. This tool uses the IDT API to map raw amino acids or NCBI accessions to optimized DNA for hosts like E. coli, yeast, or mammalian cells.

Can I optimize a specific region of an NCBI accession for cloning?

Yes, you can optimize specific residues from an NCBI accession. Provide the accession via --accession and specify the desired region using the optional --residues flag to generate the corresponding optimized DNA sequence.

Does codon optimization work with insect and yeast host organisms?

Yes, codon optimization supports insect, E. coli, mammalian, and yeast organisms. Specify your target expression host using the --organism flag, or let the tool infer it from your selected vector format.

What vector formats are supported for DNA sequence optimization?

Supported vector formats include 438, 1-, and pVEX. Specify your vector using the --vector flag, which also enables vector-based organism inference to tailor codon usage for cloning.