# Key Points from IRC Log

• A microporation technology for benchtop electroporation was shared via a link to digital-bio.com, which appears to be a device for cell transfection applications.

• A discussion about DNA synthesis technology revealed that IDT (Integrated DNA Technologies) builds its own DNA synthesis machines in-house rather than purchasing commercial systems, finding this approach more cost-effective.

• Gen9Bio was mentioned as having next-generation gene synthesis technologies that could potentially replace the world's current annual output of synthetic genes.

• A protein engineering tutorial was shared from OpenWetWare, along with a humorous rap parody about laboratory techniques called "Lyse, Lyse Baby."

• Information was shared about a whole mouse brain chemical preservation technique developed by Shawn Mikula at Max Planck Institute, using acrolein as a fixative rather than traditional paraformaldehyde and glutaraldehyde.

• There was a technical discussion about microfluidics, noting that these systems work with extremely small volumes (nanoliters, picoliters, and even femtoliters) and typically use expensive syringe pumps.

• A conversation about creating a Kickstarter-like platform specifically for Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) development led to discussion of existing organizations like Software in the Public Interest (SPI) that already support such projects.