# Key Themes from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• DIY artificial gene synthesis was discussed as technically feasible for hobbyists with a moderate budget (under $1,000 for chemicals), though participants debated the practical challenges of building custom microfluidics systems versus using commercial services.

• Participants criticized the misuse of "open source" terminology in hardware projects, particularly OpenPCR which took two years to release source code despite Kickstarter funding and charged over $500, making it impractical for DIY biohackers.

• A significant technical discussion focused on microfluidics chip fabrication for DNA synthesis, highlighting challenges like channel collapse, valve malfunctions, and the unique physics of fluid dynamics at micro scales.

• DNA synthesis costs were noted to have decreased only marginally over the past decade (unlike DNA sequencing), partly due to lack of competitive pressure, prompting work on an open-source DNA synthesizer that could dramatically reduce costs from the current $10k-100k range.

• Researchers discussed extracting DNA from black widow spiders to obtain spider silk genes, suggesting PCR amplification of 9-11kb sequences using KAPA HiFi enzyme as an alternative to expensive DNA synthesis.

• The conversation explored protein expression systems, particularly the feasibility of expressing large spider silk proteins (up to 320 kDa) in Pichia pastoris without complex post-translational modifications.

• A philosophical thread examined existential questions about the purpose of indefinite survival and transhumanist life extension if the universe itself is finite, touching on the intersection of technological philosophy and existential nihilism.