# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• Participants discussed the "immortal jellyfish" (Turritopsis dohrnii) as a potential model for human longevity research, considering whether its ability to revert to earlier developmental stages could be adapted for humans through viral gene therapy, despite the significant biological differences between species.

• The rapidly falling costs of genome sequencing were highlighted, with prices dropping from approximately $1 million ten years prior to around $10,000 in 2010, with predictions of further reductions to under $100 in the near future.

• The conversation compared DIY biology approaches versus institutional research, discussing the formation of research groups and funding mechanisms to pursue unconventional longevity research.

• 3D printing technologies were discussed, particularly the conversion of CAD designs to STL files for RepRap printing, noting that while CAD-to-STL conversion is straightforward, the reverse process is extremely difficult.

• Python-based tools like pythonocc were recommended for programmatic CAD design, allowing users to create designs through code for 3D printing.

• Current synthetic biology CAD programs like ClothoCAD were criticized as inadequate and not true CAD systems, despite their use in undergraduate education.

• Aubrey de Grey's theoretical work on life extension was discussed, including his WILT anti-cancer strategy and observations about biological immortality mechanisms.

• Resources shared included an 8-bit tools of science article and a synthetic biology primer PDF from OpenWetWare, highlighting the community's connection to open-source science initiatives.