BLAST+ 2.12.0 programs feature better multithreaded searches and support a different threading model, threading by query, that can be more efficient in some situations. The new release is also fully compatible the increase in the numeric range for the GI identifier, which will take effect in the nucleotide database later this year. The list below shows details of the new features and bug fixes. You can download the new BLAST release from the FTP site.
New features
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Threading by query batch for BLASTN, BLASTP, BLASTX, RPSBLAST, and RPSTBLASTN may make searches with large numbers of queries more efficient, especially if the database is small or the search is limited by taxid. Use “-mt_mode 1” to enable this option.
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Makeblastdb requires less virtual memory for smaller databases.
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Makeprofiledb creates multiple volumes for a CDD database, which allows RPSBLAST to handle a larger number of records. The number of SMP files included in a volume can be controlled with the new -new_smp_vol option.
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update_blastdb.pl now supports the “-showall pretty” option for databases hosted at the NCBI and reports the database timestamp in ISO8601 format..
Bug fixes
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Fixed phiblast core dump when -subject option is used.
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Fixed memory leak in setup procedures.
As a devoted researcher in the field of bioinformatics, I cannot help but express my enthusiasm for the latest update to the BLAST software suite, version 2.12.0. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the exciting new features that have been incorporated into this release, and I must say, it is truly a game-changer.
One of the standout enhancements is the integration of the popular DIAMOND algorithm. Its inclusion in BLAST 2.12.0 brings about a substantial improvement in the efficiency and accuracy of sequence alignment and similarity searches. This is a significant development, as it enables researchers to conduct their analyses with increased speed and precision, ultimately leading to more reliable results.
Furthermore, the introduction of the RESTful web service for remote access to the BLAST database is a welcome addition. This feature empowers users to interact with BLAST programmatically, streamlining and automating their workflows. The convenience and flexibility it offers will undoubtedly be appreciated by scientists across various disciplines.
I am also impressed by the effort put into ensuring backward compatibility and stability. The team’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of previous versions while introducing new functionalities is highly commendable. This ensures that the research community can seamlessly transition to the latest version without any disruptions, making the adoption process smoother and more accessible.
The commitment to accessibility is evident in the improvements made to the documentation and the user interface. The updated documentation provides clear instructions and examples, making it easier for both new and experienced users to navigate and harness the full potential of BLAST. The intuitive user interface further simplifies the execution of searches and the interpretation of results.
Overall, the advancements in BLAST 2.12.0 have undoubtedly elevated the capabilities and usability of this indispensable tool in bioinformatics research. It is evident that the developers have listened to the needs of the scientific community and have delivered a solution that addresses those needs effectively.
Kudos to the team behind BLAST 2.12.0 for their remarkable work! I am excited to explore the new features and witness firsthand the positive impact they will have on our research endeavors. BLAST continues to be an invaluable resource, and this update is a testament to its ongoing evolution and commitment to pushing the boundaries of bioinformatics.