RSpred

RSpred identifies sequences corresponding to Stevor and sub-groups of Rifin proteins using a set of hidden Markov models to detect and classify these protein families.

Key Features:

• Distinguish Sub-Groups: Identifies sub-groups within the Rifin family essential for sub-family classification.
• Predict Stevor-Like Proteins: Detects Stevor-like proteins that deviate from typical sequences or are too fragmented to score highly with standard models.
• Improved Sensitivity and Robustness: Provides greater sensitivity and robustness compared to existing databases such as Pfam and TIGRFAMs.

Scientific Applications:

• Functional Analysis: Streamlines categorization into sub-families for understanding functions and roles in immune evasion.

Methodology:

Uses a set of hidden Markov models to scan protein sequences and an evaluation program to refine predictions, yielding high specificity and sensitivity while avoiding traditional phylogenetic methods.