Anti-CRISPRdb

Anti-CRISPRdb provides a curated database of anti-CRISPR proteins (Acrs) and associated experimental and computational data to support analysis of Acr–Cas/CRISPR inhibitory mechanisms.

Key Features:

• Extensive Data Collection: Curated entries cover anti-CRISPR proteins (Acrs) and families compiled from literature curation and homologous alignment.
• Acr Neighbor Prediction: Integration of an Acr neighbor prediction tool enables screening of candidate novel Acrs.
• Experimental Data Integration: Includes experimental measurements of inhibitory strength and the specific stages at which Acrs interact with Cas or CRISPR systems.
• Codon Usage Bias Ranking (CUBRank): CUBRank quantifies codon usage bias in genes, correlates positively with AcRanker predictions, and aids identification of genes likely located in genome islands.

Scientific Applications:

• Screening and Identification: Screening candidate proteins to identify novel anti-CRISPR agents.
• Mechanistic Studies: Supporting investigation of how Acrs interact with and inhibit Cas proteins or CRISPR systems.
• Predictive Modeling: Providing experimental and computational data for models that predict specific inhibitory capabilities of Acrs.

Methodology:

Data were compiled by literature curation and homologous alignment; computational methods include Acr neighbor prediction, calculation of CUBRank (codon usage bias), and comparison with AcRanker predictions.