# Key Ideas from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• A DIY DNA synthesis project was proposed to create an affordable DNA synthesizer by finding lower-cost alternatives to expensive phosphoramidite nucleosides, representing efforts to democratize biotechnology through open-source approaches.

• Researchers conceptualized a theoretical DNA read/write system using modified polymerase protein complexes with light-responsive "antennae," potentially enabling bio-producible DNA synthesis without electrodes.

• Participants shared significant scientific resources, including a collection of microfluidics papers (http://heybryan.org/books/papers/microfluidics/) and research on thermodynamic constraints affecting neural dimensions and brain size (http://arxiv.org/abs/0905.3690).

• A molecular rotation engine concept was discussed with reference to a design using muscle fiber as a power source (http://www.ccrnp.ncifcrf.gov/~toms/patent/molecularrotationengine/), demonstrating interest in biomechanical interfaces.

• The community explored practical biohacking implementations, including a DIY wearable cooling system built using a small water pump from a toy water gun, showing the hands-on experimentation culture.

• Participants discussed the need for a stronger "garage biology culture" to drive innovation in biotechnology similar to how early computer companies emerged from hobbyist communities, lamenting that too much focus was on ethics rather than practical implementation.