diffdock

Predicts protein-ligand binding poses from PDB or sequence and SMILES inputs.

33.0k|3.2k|Updated Oct 19, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/K-Dense-AI/scientific-agent-skills --skill diffdock-k-dense-ai
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: diffdock
Source: https://github.com/K-Dense-AI/scientific-agent-skills/tree/main/scientific-skills/diffdock
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/K-Dense-AI/scientific-agent-skills --skill diffdock-k-dense-ai

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires pandas, rdkit, torch, esm, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

DiffDock automates the prediction of protein-ligand binding poses using diffusion models, enabling rapid generation of plausible binding geometries and confidence assessments for structure-based drug design.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Predict 3D ligand binding poses for protein targets from PDB or amino-acid sequences
  • Generate per-pose confidence scores and support batch virtual screening
  • Integrate with downstream scoring/refinement tools for affinity estimation or lead optimization

Quick Start

Run inference with a protein input (PDB or sequence) and a ligand input (SMILES or file) to generate top docking poses using the default configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions about diffdock

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I predict protein-ligand binding poses from a PDB file and SMILES string?

To predict protein-ligand binding poses, you can provide a protein PDB file or amino-acid sequence alongside a ligand SMILES string. DiffDock uses diffusion models to generate ranked 3D binding geometries with per-pose confidence scores for structure-based drug design.

Can I run batch virtual screening for multiple ligands against a single protein target?

Yes, you can run batch virtual screening for multiple ligands against a single protein target. DiffDock automates pose prediction using diffusion models and outputs ranked pose files with confidence data, enabling rapid evaluation of numerous ligand candidates.

Does DiffDock provide confidence scores for molecular docking pose predictions?

Yes, DiffDock provides per-pose confidence scores for molecular docking pose predictions. It uses diffusion models to generate multiple binding geometries, assigning confidence values to each pose to help prioritize results for structure-based drug design.

What input formats are supported for protein and ligand structure files?

Supported input formats include PDB files or amino-acid sequences for proteins, and SMILES strings or ligand structure files for ligands. This flexibility allows you to run diffusion-based docking predictions using standard bioinformatics data formats.

How do diffusion models compare to traditional molecular docking for binding pose prediction?

Diffusion models offer a generative approach to binding pose prediction, producing multiple plausible 3D ligand geometries with confidence scores. This differs from traditional molecular docking by automating pose generation through diffusion processes rather than relying solely on scoring function optimizations.

Can I integrate docking results with downstream scoring and refinement tools?

Yes, you can integrate docking results with downstream scoring and refinement tools. DiffDock outputs ranked pose files and confidence data, which can be used directly by downstream tools for affinity estimation or lead optimization in structure-based drug design.