De-novo-motif-discovery

Identify enriched transcription factor motifs in genomic regions using HOMER.

12|3|Updated Nov 4, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/BIsnake2001/ChromSkills --skill de-novo-motif-discovery
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: De-novo-motif-discovery
Source: https://github.com/BIsnake2001/ChromSkills/tree/main/12_toolBased.De-novo-motif-discovery
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/BIsnake2001/ChromSkills --skill de-novo-motif-discovery

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill identifies novel transcription factor binding motifs in the promoter regions of genes, or directly from genomic regions of interest such as ChIP-seq peaks, ATAC-seq accessible sites, or differentially acessible regions. It employs HOMER (Hypergeometric Optimization of Motif Enrichment) to detect both known and previously uncharacterized sequence motifs enriched within the supplied genomic intervals. Use the skill when you need to uncover sequence motifs enriched or want to know which TFs might regulate the target regions.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • De novo motif discovery using HOMER to identify both known and novel transcription factor motifs from genomic regions or promoter gene lists.
  • Input flexibility: supports BED, narrowPeak, broadPeak formats or gene lists; outputs organized per project; handles genome assembly specification.
  • Standardization guidance and robust outputs: includes chromosome name standardization and well-structured results directories for downstream interpretation.

Quick Start

Provide input genomic regions (BED/narrowPeak/broadPeak) or a gene list and the genome assembly, then run the skill to perform de novo motif discovery with HOMER.

Frequently Asked Questions about De-novo-motif-discovery

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

FAQPage Schema
What is de novo motif discovery and when do I need it for my genomic data?

De novo motif discovery identifies enriched transcription factor binding motifs within genomic regions or promoter lists. You need it when analyzing ChIP-seq peaks, ATAC-seq accessible sites, or gene lists to uncover sequence motifs and predict regulatory transcription factors.

How do I find enriched transcription factor motifs from BED files and narrowPeak formats?

To find enriched transcription factor motifs from BED files and narrowPeak formats, provide your genomic regions and specify the genome assembly. The skill standardizes chromosome names and processes the input to discover both known and novel motifs.

Can I use HOMER for motif discovery with a gene list instead of a BED file?

Yes, you can use HOMER for motif discovery with a gene list instead of a BED file. The skill supports promoter motif discovery directly from gene lists, alongside genomic interval formats like broadPeak and narrowPeak, provided you specify the genome assembly.

What genome assemblies are supported for HOMER motif enrichment analysis?

HOMER motif enrichment analysis supports genome assemblies specified by the user. You must provide the genome assembly alongside your input file, which standardizes chromosome names and ensures accurate motif discovery across your genomic regions or promoter gene lists.

Does chromosome naming format affect transcription factor motif discovery from peak files?

Chromosome naming format can affect transcription factor motif discovery from peak files. The skill includes chromosome name standardization to process BED, narrowPeak, and broadPeak files correctly, ensuring your genomic regions are accurately mapped to the specified genome assembly.

What are the limitations of using HOMER for de novo motif discovery in ATAC-seq data?

Limitations of using HOMER for de novo motif discovery in ATAC-seq data include the requirement for a specified genome assembly and properly formatted input regions. The skill standardizes chromosome names but relies on accurate genomic intervals or promoter gene lists to detect enriched motifs.