# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• DIY genome sequencing faces significant cost barriers, with commercial sequencers ranging from $50,000-$1,200,000, though used older models can be found for $12,000-$15,000, and at least one open-source sequencer project exists with material costs around $20,000.

• Participants highlighted the fundamental challenges of biological programming compared to computer programming, noting that in biology "the program is also data is also physical," creating complex interactions and emergent phenomena that make synthetic biology difficult to predict.

• Genome sequencing techniques were discussed in technical detail, including DNA fragment reassembly through overlap analysis, the probabilistic nature of base pair determination, and alternative approaches like direct DNA sequencing with electron microscopy.

• A discussion about designing biosensors from standardized biobrick parts to detect air pollutants revealed the challenges of non-selective sensing and the complexities of combining biological components.

• Adafruit's release of a new biotech badge generated positive interest among participants, reflecting growing accessibility of DIY biotech tools.

• Cross-platform mobile development frameworks were evaluated, with PhoneGap recommended for Twitter-integrated applications, and alternatives like Appcelerator/Titanium, curl.com and Opalang mentioned for web and mobile development.