# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Log

• Participants discussed nanopore DNA sequencing technology in detail, comparing methods using magnetic beads to pull DNA through nanopores versus alternative approaches using graphene nanogaps and scanning tunneling microscopy.

• A technical debate emerged about nanopore sequencing implementation, specifically whether measuring conductance between electrodes or ion flow through pores would be more effective for nucleotide detection.

• The community expressed concern about DIYbio NYC requiring formal credentials (bioscience degrees) for wetlab work, arguing this contradicts the inclusive ethos of the DIY biology movement.

• Intellectual property in synthetic biology was debated, particularly whether DNA sequences could be copyrighted, with references to the BioBricks Foundation's legal framework and "clickwrap" agreements for biological parts.

• DIYbio-NYC appears to be formalizing their organization through articles of incorporation and attempting to participate in the iGEM competition despite previous rejection.

• Technical resources shared included commandlinefu.com for command line tools, papers on 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (a natural DNA base), and open-source product initiatives like OpenCola and FreeBeer.

• JPL's LEMUR robot was discussed as an innovative design with multiple degrees of freedom that can use its limbs as both legs and arms with integrated tools.