FAQs
What does Balto do?
Balto connects users with a range of cutting-edge modeling tools and speeds up drug discovery, cutting out hundreds of hours of learning domain-specific tools. Balto removes the need to learn complicated tools, and lets you move from drug discovery hunches to reliable data in minutes. He's constantly learning new tricks through ever-expanding access to academic databases, open-source tools, and Deep Origin's proprietary modeling algorithms.
Why is it called Balto?
We named our AI assistant in honor of Balto the sled dog known for his 1925 emergency supply run of diphtheria antivenom to Nome, Alaska that saved dozens of lives. We hope that Balto becomes similarly helpful and invaluable in drug discovery.
What do I need to know before I start?
Nothing! All you need to do is log in with your Google account and get going. Balto is accessible to all scientists without the need to reference complex documentation. Experts and non-experts in molecular modeling are invited to play with it. If you would like to talk to one of Balto's human trainers, please schedule a chat here. If you're not sure what to ask, we have provided some initial prompts to get started!
How can I access Balto?
Balto is always available at balto.deeporigin.io. If you would like to explore how Balto can contribute to your organization or talk to our team of trainers, please reach out to sales.
Balto is a "limited open Beta", what does that mean?
Anyone can sign up for Balto. But, we're limiting the number of available seats for now (it's first come, first serve!). To get started, all limited open beta participants will have up to 100 free prompts and 10 free docking events. From our experience, this is enough to do some serious inquiry! To purchase more prompts and docking simulations, please reach out to sales.
Currently, Balto has learned the basic steps needed for docking - protein and small molecule data retrieval, pocket finding and small molecule docking; as well as a few limited tools for analysis of small molecules - prediction of logS, logD, pKa, hERG activity, CYP P450 binding, Ames mutagenicity and synthetic routes, to name a few. Ask Balto directly because our pup learns something new every week. Let us know what tools Balto should master or add to his collection of skills.
What algorithms does Balto use for molecular modeling?
Balto uses Deep Origin's proprietary algorithms and workflows for pocket-finding, docking, and molecular property prediction. He can also utilize open-source tools and databases such as MolStar, PDB and ChEMBL. Our team of Balto trainers are constantly creating and implementing cutting-edge science to help Balto be your world-class drug discovery guide.
When can I expect more features and tools accessible through Balto?
Our team of human trainers are actively teaching Balto new tricks. Every week our audacious canine will add new features to better help you with drug discovery. Since Balto is a web-based dog, his updates will automatically be available to you. Check in often to see what new surprises Balto has for you 🐾.
What should I do if Balto makes a mistake?
Balto is capable, but he is still young and learning how to best communicate with people! We kindly ask for your feedback about Balto's behavior, your experience navigating his docking workflow, and the quality of the results he generates. Please share your feedback here.
Which data sources does Balto use to find protein structural data and small molecules SMILES?
Balto fetches protein data from the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and UniProt and small molecule information from ChEMBL and Zinc. Our team of Balto trainers are continuously adding new sources of information. Let us know if your favorite source of data is missing. Also, feel free to directly ask Balto about his sources.
Can I ask Balto multiple questions in parallel?
Currently, Balto can answer only one question at a time. But, Balto is growing every day and soon he will be able to multitask.
How can I review previous visualizations?
Scroll to the message that generated the desired visualization and click on "See Work" at the top right corner of the message.
Can I download the data that Balto generates?
Yes, you can. Balto can provide fetched proteins through a button in the top right corner of the report window. Balto can provide docked poses and related visualizations through the MolStar menu.
Can I give Balto treats?
We're considering this feature. If you're interested in giving Balto a reward for his good work, let us know!