Parts Browser
Browse and search characterized genetic parts from iGEM, NCBI, and AddGene.
Searching parts
The parts browser supports three search modes:
- Keyword search — search by name, description, or keywords (e.g., “GFP”, “T7 promoter”)
- Semantic search — describe what you need in natural language (“strong inducible promoter for E. coli”).
- Filters — filter by part type (promoter, RBS, CDS, terminator, etc.), source database, and organism
Part types
| Type | Description | SBOL Glyph |
|---|---|---|
| Promoter | Initiates transcription | Arrow |
| RBS | Ribosome binding site for translation initiation | Semicircle |
| CDS | Coding sequence (protein-coding gene) | Arrow block |
| Terminator | Stops transcription | T-shape |
| Reporter | Measurable output (GFP, RFP, luciferase) | Pentagon |
| Regulatory | Regulatory elements (operators, enhancers) | Diamond |
| Origin | Origin of replication | Circle |
| Resistance | Antibiotic resistance markers | Shield |
Part details
Each part record includes:
- Name, description, and external ID
- DNA sequence with length and GC content
- Source database and link to original entry
- Organism and compatible organisms list
- Characterization level
- Community ratings and reliability score
- Keywords and assembly standard compatibility
Data sources
Parts are sourced from three databases:
- iGEM Registry — community-contributed standardized biological parts
- NCBI GenBank — curated reference sequences
- AddGene — plasmid repository with validated constructs
Public access
The parts browser is publicly accessible without an account, so you can explore the database before signing up.