# Summary of #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

* A DIY biohacker is constructing a laser CNC machine for DNA synthesizer microfluidics, aiming to keep equipment costs under $5,000 USD, with the complete synthesizer requiring additional components costing $5,000-15,000 USD.

* Participants discussed CNC control system architecture, with recommendations favoring LinuxCNC over Arduino-based solutions like GRBL due to the advantages of using standard Linux rather than custom gcode interpreters.

* The channel featured discussions about transgenic organisms, including fluorescent protein applications already developed in Taiwan for fish and pigs, along with considerations about the risks of releasing such organisms.

* Members explored the feasibility of modifying yeast or E. coli to produce steroids and human growth hormone (hGH), noting that while synthetic chemistry might be initially cheaper, biological production becomes more efficient once the strain is developed.

* A conversation about 3D printing large concrete structures highlighted how trade unions can impede technological innovation, with the example of Philadelphia's Comcast tower being forced to install unused cast iron pipes alongside functional PVC plumbing.

* The community discussed methods for accessing scientific papers behind paywalls, including a tool called "paperbot" that attempts to fetch academic papers automatically.

* Participants shared information about practical biohacking techniques such as DNA extraction from snake cast-off skin using collagenase.