# Key Points from IRC Conversation

• A design for a non-programmable DNA synthesizer was shared (http://heybryan.org/~bbishop/docs/DNAsynthesizer/), with discussions focusing on technical challenges such as droplet movement scheduling, DNA recovery from closed systems, and non-intersecting channel layouts for oligonucleotide arrays.

• Microfluidic PCR was proposed as an accessible DIYbio project, with participants highlighting a spiral design using heating/cooling elements at the corners of a plate as a relatively simple implementation approach.

• A community member offered to fabricate custom microfluidic devices for free (excluding electrical connections and interfaces), prompting discussions about potential applications including fluidic amplifiers and DNA synthesizers.

• An eBay auction for whole genome sequencing by Knome was mentioned, with bidding starting at $68,000 and including a private dinner with geneticist George Church.

• A technological breakthrough involving titanium nanotubes contaminated with potassium was discussed, noting their ability to split water into hydrogen using only one-third of the electricity required by uncontaminated nanotubes.

• Research on creating nanoholes in cell membranes was referenced through a paper titled "Amyloid-beta-induced ion flux in artificial lipid bilayers and neuronal cells: Resolving a controversy."

• The bioweathermap.org project was announced, representing a new initiative for biological data collection and mapping.