The method of electron paramagnetic resonance and spin labels was used to study the structural characteristics of Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus envelope and cell membranes of chick embryo fibroblasts. The virus envelope lipids form a bilayer structural typical of biological membranes. The lipid bilayer of virions is more rigid than the cytoplasmic membrane of chick embryo fibroblasts. Investigation of interaction of a small hydrophilic molecule with Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus particles showed free water to be absent in the virions. A structural translation was detected at 25 degrees-30 degrees C in the virion membrane. The role of membrane structures in virus reproduction is discussed.