# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Researchers discussed microfluidics technology for DNA synthesis, specifically the potential for placing microfluidic reactors on a single chip, though practical implementation for DNA synthesis was considered challenging in the near term.

• Neuroscience resources were shared on brain development, including research on cortical folding mechanisms, tensegrity models of gyrification, and transgenic brain size manipulation through cell cycle alterations.

• Participants distinguished between brain augmentation technologies (adding new capabilities) and enhancement (improving existing functions), discussing transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and brain-computer interfaces.

• DIY biotechnology tools were a focus, with interest in developing in-vivo DNA synthesizers, implantable microelectrode arrays, neural stem cell cultures, and accessible brain imaging technologies.

• Technical development of SKDB (Skill Database), a hardware package management system described as "apt-get but for hardware," was discussed, including implementation details for dependency resolution and package loading functionality.

• The group explored electroporation techniques for gene expression manipulation in developing mammalian embryos, referencing research on ultrasound-guided electroporation in fetuses.

• Artificial womb technology was discussed, with references to Kuwabara's pioneering work in Japan during the 1990s and consideration of the technical challenges in fetal neurosurgery.