Getting up close and personal with molecules in virtual reality

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) tools let chemists explore proteins and molecules, build and test potential drugs, and collaborate with colleagues remotely. In this video, C&EN reporter Sam Lemonick tries out a VR app that incorporates visualizations of molecules with advanced computational tools—offering a new way for chemists to develop drugs and address other problems—and learns how VR could help scientists use robotic lab equipment. Researchers who are using VR to study SARS-CoV-2 say the tools are giving them new insights about the virus and vaccines. But one scientist cautions that the cost of equipment could limit VR’s potential to address global problems. Learn more at cenm.ag/virtualresearch .