ABSTRACT The authors explore protein sonification issues using Morse code theory. Short musical phrases based on protein amino acids are used to compose protein music. Rhythms and tunes familiar to teenagers are also investigated, with the aim of producing different genres of protein music. A special musical instrument, the Chinese guzheng , can be employed to play the protein music. Experiment is carried out with different proteins, including the HIV main protease. It is hoped that this study can help unveil the mysteries of nature and motivate students to learn biology.

The authors present their research on using virtual reality (VR) in the presentation of protein music and immersive games. They first describe the core components of VR technology for protein modeling, visualization and interaction. They then present their implementations of VR protein games and protein-derived computer music. Instruction in protein-structure learning is discussed in the context of the authors' trial project in the Chinese High School in Singapore and an exhibition at Singapore Art Museum.