query-pdb

Search RCSB PDB for protein structures and download PDB files.

30|2|Updated Mar 13, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/IDEA-XL/MolClaw --skill query-pdb-idea-xl
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: query-pdb
Source: https://github.com/IDEA-XL/MolClaw/tree/main/.claude/skills/query-pdb
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/IDEA-XL/MolClaw --skill query-pdb-idea-xl

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill helps researchers quickly locate and access experimental protein structures from the RCSB Protein Data Bank (PDB), covering X-ray, cryo-EM, and NMR data, and makes it easy to obtain corresponding PDB files.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Search and discovery: text search and advanced searches to find entries by keywords, PDB IDs, genes, organisms, and experimental methods.
  • Detail retrieval: fetch entry titles, experimental method, and resolution to compare structures.
  • Download: download PDB files directly to a workspace for downstream analysis and visualization.
  • Use Case: a researcher asks for all high-resolution structures of a target protein and downloads the top results for inspection.

Quick Start

Ask me to fetch experimental structures for a given protein or PDB ID, and I will search the PDB, retrieve details, and download the PDB file.

Frequently Asked Questions about query-pdb

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I search for and download protein structures from the RCSB PDB?

To download protein structures from the RCSB PDB, you can search using keywords, PDB IDs, genes, or organisms. The tool retrieves entry details like experimental method and resolution, then directly downloads the PDB files to your workspace for analysis.

How do I find high-resolution crystal structures for a specific target protein?

You can find high-resolution crystal structures by searching the PDB with your target protein's keywords or gene name. The search returns entry details including experimental method and resolution, allowing you to identify and download the highest quality structures available.

Can I retrieve cryo-EM and NMR experimental data from the Protein Data Bank?

Yes, you can retrieve cryo-EM and NMR experimental data from the Protein Data Bank. The search covers multiple experimental methods, returning the specific method used and its resolution for each entry, which you can then download as a PDB file.

What is the best way to get PDB file paths for downstream structural analysis?

The best way to get PDB file paths for downstream structural analysis is to search for entries by PDB ID or keyword. The tool downloads the PDB files directly to your workspace and returns the exact file paths alongside a summary of the experimental methods.

Does searching the RCSB PDB require a specific PDB ID to fetch structural data?

No, searching the RCSB PDB does not require a specific PDB ID. You can perform text searches using keywords, gene names, or organisms to discover relevant experimental protein structures, retrieve their details, and download the corresponding files.

How do I compare experimental methods and resolution for multiple PDB entries?

To compare experimental methods and resolution for multiple PDB entries, search for your target protein using relevant keywords. The tool retrieves and summarizes the experimental method and resolution for each matching entry, enabling direct comparison before you download the PDB files.