> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://vibemx.gitbook.io/neuronai-studio/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://vibemx.gitbook.io/neuronai-studio/mcp-servers/agent-binding.md).

# Agent Binding

Bind MCP servers to agents to expose their tools during Playground sessions and workflow agent nodes.

## Bind in the agent editor

1. Open an agent for editing
2. Add an MCP server binding
3. Optionally filter tools with **only** / **exclude** lists
4. Save

```mermaid
flowchart TB
    Agent[AgentDefinition] --> Pivot[neuronai_studio_agent_mcp_server]
    Pivot --> Server[McpServer record]
    Server --> Resolver[McpToolResolver]
    Resolver --> Tools[Discovered MCP tools]
    Tools --> DynamicAgent[DynamicAgent at runtime]
```

## Ref format

MCP tools use the ref pattern:

```
mcp:{server_key}:{tool_name}
```

Examples:

* `mcp:filesystem:read_file`
* `mcp:telescope:query_requests`

When binding an entire server, the agent receives all discovered tools (subject to only/exclude filters).

## Filter tools

Same as regular tool bindings:

```json
{
  "ref": "mcp:filesystem",
  "only": ["read_file", "list_directory"],
  "exclude": ["write_file"]
}
```

## Database schema

The `agent_mcp_server` pivot table (prefixed, e.g. `neuronai_studio_agent_mcp_server`) links agents to MCP servers with optional filter JSON.

## Workflow usage

Agent nodes in workflows use agents with pre-configured MCP bindings. The **MCP node** can also call MCP tools directly without going through an agent. See [AI Nodes](/neuronai-studio/workflows/ai-nodes.md).

## Troubleshooting

| Issue               | Check                                    |
| ------------------- | ---------------------------------------- |
| Tools not appearing | Run Test Discovery in MCP editor         |
| Stdio server fails  | Command in allowlist? Process installed? |
| HTTP server fails   | URL reachable? Token set in `.env`?      |
| Timeout             | Network latency, server startup time     |

## Next steps

* [MCP Overview](/neuronai-studio/mcp-servers/overview.md)
* [Creating Agents](/neuronai-studio/agents/creating-agents.md)


---

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