VAST+ is a new tool designed to identify macromolecules that have similar 3-dimensional structures with an emphasis on finding similar macromolecular complexes. The similarities are calculated using purely geometric criteria without regard to sequence similarity, and therefore can identify distant homologs.
This new tool is built upon the original Vector Alignment Search Tool (VAST) and expands the capabilities of that program by taking into account the biological unit ("biounit") of each structure, not just individual protein chains or their substructures.
A recent publication provides detailed information about the VAST+ algorithm. In addition, the extensive VAST+ help document includes a comparison of original VAST and VAST+, as well as examples of how can this tool can be used to learn more about proteins.
Please note that in order to view the 3D superpositions of similar biological units, you must install the most recent version of the NCBI molecular viewing software, Cn3D 4.3.1.
Figure. VAST+ search results for Thermotoga maritima Glutamate Dehydrogenase (PDB ID 1B26) with detailed view of a match to 1GTM.
