Platon

Platon – Identification and Characterization of Plasmid Contigs

Platon is a specialized tool for the detection and characterization of plasmid-derived contigs in bacterial draft genomes generated from whole-genome short-read assemblies. Using empirically derived Replicon Distribution Scores (RDS) together with an extensive protein marker database, Platon distinguishes chromosomal from plasmid contigs with high sensitivity and specificity. Additional analyses provide detailed insights into plasmid structure, mobility, and replication systems, enabling robust downstream interpretation.

Key benefits
Accurate identification of plasmid-derived contigs in bacterial draft genomes
High sensitivity and specificity through Replicon Distribution Scores (RDS)
Comprehensive plasmid characterization using curated protein marker databases
Analysis of plasmid mobility, replication systems, and structural features
Facilitates interpretation of complex bacterial genome assemblies
Open-source and suitable for integration into automated genomics workflows
Applications
Identification of plasmids in draft bacterial genomes
Characterization of plasmid structure, mobility, and replication systems
Support for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance studies
Comparative genomics and plasmid epidemiology
Quality control and validation of plasmid assemblies in whole-genome sequencing projects
Investigation of horizontal gene transfer and mobile genetic elements
Intended use

Platon is intended for microbiologists, bioinformaticians, microbial genomicists, and public health researchers working with bacterial whole-genome sequencing data. It is particularly suited for users who require reliable identification and characterization of plasmids in draft genome assemblies to support comparative genomics, AMR surveillance, and microbial evolution studies.

Contact:
Website https://github.com/oschwengers/platon/issues