matchms

Match mass spectra across libraries using multiple similarity metrics.

21|1|Updated Mar 19, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/OwnLabAI/ownlab --skill matchms-ownlabai
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: matchms
Source: https://github.com/OwnLabAI/ownlab/tree/main/mart/skills/scientific-skills/matchms
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/OwnLabAI/ownlab --skill matchms-ownlabai

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Spectral data processing and similarity analysis for mass spectrometry can be labor-intensive and error-prone without standardized tooling, hindering reproducibility and faster discovery.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Import, preprocess, and harmonize spectra from MGF, MSP, mzML, mzXML, and GNPS JSON formats.
  • Compute spectral similarities using multiple metrics (CosineGreedy, CosineHungarian, ModifiedCosine, NeutralLossesCosine) and support metadata-based scores.
  • Build reusable, end-to-end workflows for library matching, compound annotation, and method development across metabolomics and proteomics studies.

Quick Start

Load a library and query dataset, apply standard preprocessing, and compute pairwise similarity with CosineGreedy.

Frequently Asked Questions about matchms

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I match mass spectrometry spectra against a library for metabolite annotation?

To match mass spectrometry spectra, import your library and query datasets from formats like MGF or mzML, apply standard preprocessing, and compute pairwise similarity using metrics such as CosineGreedy to annotate metabolites. This builds reusable workflows for scalable spectral library matching.

What similarity metrics can I use for spectral library matching?

Spectral library matching supports CosineGreedy, CosineHungarian, ModifiedCosine, and NeutralLossesCosine metrics, alongside metadata-based scores. These options allow flexible similarity calculations across query spectra and spectral libraries for compound annotation tasks.

Can I import and preprocess spectra from mzML and GNPS JSON formats?

Yes, you can import, preprocess, and harmonize spectra from mzML, mzXML, MGF, MSP, and GNPS JSON formats. This standardizes mass spectrometry data for consistent similarity analysis and metabolite identification workflows.

Do I need a Python runtime and rdkit to perform molecular fingerprinting?

Yes, this spectral analysis requires a Python runtime. Optional dependencies like rdkit are needed specifically for molecular fingerprinting tasks, while core spectral library matching and preprocessing functions operate within the standard environment.

What is the best way to build scalable metabolomics workflows for compound annotation?

The best way to build scalable metabolomics workflows is to standardize import and preprocessing of mass spectrometry data, then apply multiple similarity metrics for library matching. This end-to-end approach ensures reproducible compound annotation and method development.

Why does my spectral data processing lack reproducibility across metabolomics studies?

Spectral data processing lacks reproducibility without standardized tooling for mass spectrometry harmonization. Applying consistent preprocessing and defined similarity metrics across MGF and mzML inputs ensures error-free, reproducible metabolite identification and library matching.