# Key Points from Transhumanist IRC Discussion

• A biohacking project involving phages was being coordinated between Sudo Room and Biocurious, highlighting the collaborative nature of community biology labs in open-source science projects.

• Researchers discussed a paper on cryogenic spaceflight technology from United Launch Alliance that addressed integrated vehicle propulsion and power systems for long-duration missions, showing interest in advanced space exploration capabilities.

• The Horus study examining atherosclerosis across 4,000 years of human history was shared, with participants noting the CT scan videos embedded in the publication that revealed cardiovascular disease patterns in ancient populations.

• Traditional Aleutian (Unangan) populations were discussed as being relatively free of heart disease despite high-latitude challenges, suggesting potential genetic or dietary adaptations including organ meat consumption and specific sunlight exposure practices.

• Technical discussions revealed that many restriction enzymes can maintain activity at room temperature for extended periods (up to a year according to one paper), though refrigeration remains standard practice for preserving enzyme activity.

• The FDA's approval of the OsteoFab Patient Specific Cranial Device was highlighted as a significant medical advancement, featuring 3D-printed polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) skull replacements that are both radiolucent and osteoconductive.

• Plans for a teardown of an Illumina Genome Analyzer at Biocurious were mentioned, with participants noting its architecture primarily uses off-the-shelf hardware controlled by a PC with some custom PCBs, demonstrating the community's interest in understanding and potentially modifying commercial biotech equipment.