DNA Pattern Find

Locate DNA sequences that match a regular-expression pattern on both the direct and reverse-complement strands.

Tool Configuration
Configure the parameters for DNA Pattern Find

Paste one or more raw or FASTA-formatted sequences (limit 500,000,000 characters). White space and digits are removed before searching.

Enter a JavaScript-style regular expression without surrounding slashes. Example: ctt[ca].

1

Prepare DNA Sequences

Paste one or more DNA sequences in FASTA format or as raw text. White space and digits are automatically removed before searching (limit 500 million characters).

2

Define Search Pattern

Enter a JavaScript regular expression pattern without surrounding slashes. Use character classes like [ca] to match alternatives, quantifiers like {2,5} for repeats, or IUPAC codes for degeneracy.

3

Search Both Strands

The tool automatically searches both the direct strand and the reverse complement, reporting matches with their positions and strand information.

4

Review Match Results

Each match is numbered and shows start/end positions (1-based), the matching sequence, and whether it was found on the direct or reverse strand.

Pattern Matching Notes
Tips for constructing useful DNA search patterns

IUPAC Characters

Use character classes (e.g. `[AG]`) or explicit IUPAC letters to capture ambiguity in the DNA motif you are targeting.

Forward & Reverse

Matches are reported on both the direct strand and the reverse-complement, mirroring the original SMS behaviour.

Anchoring

Remember that JavaScript regex syntax is used, so anchors like `^` and `$`, or quantifiers like {2,5}, behave as expected.