Model Released. Virtual reality in biochemistry. Digital composite image showing a biochemist using a virtual reality (VR) system to investigate molecular interactions. The large purple ribbon- like molecule is HIV protease, the blue helical object is half of a section of DNA. VR systems allow researchers to manipulate computer-generated stereo images of molecules to study their interactions. Once immersed in a virtual world, the researcher may pick up molecules, orient them as desired, add or remove functional groups and see how molecules interact as a result of their electrostatic potentials.