# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Participants discussed biological engineering challenges, specifically the difficulties of implementing bioluminescence in beer brewing, noting that known bioluminescent genes require oxygen while beer fermentation is typically anaerobic.

• The group examined the accessibility of laboratory chemicals, sharing experiences that contradicted claims about suppliers refusing to ship to residential addresses, suggesting that home biohackers can obtain necessary reagents with the right approach.

• A UK startup called Desktop Genetics (DeskGen) was discussed, with participants analyzing their modest funding ($7,500 from competitions) and questioning their business model and low salary offerings ($35k for a lead software engineer in London).

• The conversation touched on patent strategy for innovators, referencing a "patent avoidance resources" document that emphasized the costs of defending patents far outweigh filing costs, suggesting DIY patent filing may be ineffective.

• Participants shared information about epigenetic factors in cloning, referencing experiments with cloned mice showing different DNA methylation patterns.

• The high cost of assistive technology was highlighted through discussion of Braille displays costing $4,000-6,000, with participants considering their potential application in wearable technology as alternatives to head-mounted displays.

• The group discussed notable Nobel Prize winners who developed scientific instrumentation, including Theodor Svedberg (analytical ultracentrifuge), Ernst Ruska (electron microscope), and the transistor inventors, highlighting the importance of tool-building in scientific advancement.