# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Log (May 10, 2009)

• Discussion of DNA boxes as microfluidic containers for biochemical assays, with the potential to hold different reagents that could be activated by light exposure or temperature changes.

• A concept was proposed for a glass chip with multiple fluid areas containing DNA boxes, where one area could provide temperature control (endothermic/exothermic reactions) for tests requiring specific temperatures.

• Participants discussed the thermal stability of DNA boxes and whether they could withstand temperature cycles needed for certain biochemical reactions.

• A summer project to build a DNA synthesizer capable of producing 62 megabase pairs was mentioned, with potential applications including synthesizing J. Craig Venter's published synthetic life form sequence.

• The conversation explored the possibility of using PCR to replicate DNA boxes for cost-effective scaling of the technology.

• Technical discussion about Taq polymerase (used in PCR) production via recombinant E. coli expression, with notes on the challenges of enzyme purification.

• Participants considered adding purification features into the DNA sequence design, such as cleavable binding sites to facilitate enzyme recovery.