# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (May 11, 2012)

• Participants discussed DIY biohacking equipment, particularly low-cost PCR machines ($100-250 range), with references to lightbulbPCR and other thermal cycler designs from the diybio community, highlighting interest in democratizing biotechnology tools.

• A technical discussion on DNA synthesis revealed insights from a visit to DNA 2.0, including their use of refurbished Applied Biosystems equipment, Biolytic Dr. Oliog 192 machines for oligo synthesis, and gel separation techniques for DNA purification.

• The conversation explored the theoretical limits of ancient DNA preservation, noting studies suggesting DNA has a half-life of approximately 100,000 years at 15°C (potentially up to 1.1 million years in frozen conditions), making dinosaur DNA recovery extremely unlikely.

• Participants critiqued common misconceptions about nootropics and stimulants, explaining that they don't simply increase neuronal firing rates, and that fMRI scans of stimulated cortices often show decreased rather than increased firing activity.

• A critical assessment of the transhumanist movement emerged, with participants noting the gap between serious scientific work and speculative thinking, with one user stating "most transhumanists are relatively unskilled in modern technology."

• The group discussed the state of protocol automation in synthetic biology labs, revealing that even professional facilities like BIOFAB were using basic tools like Google Docs and Excel rather than sophisticated design software.

• One participant proposed defining transhuman technologies as "primarily those that increase your ability to enhance yourself," suggesting a recursive approach to enhancement where initial improvements enable the development of even more powerful technologies.