# Key Points from IRC Log

• Participants discussed DNA synthesis technology, including equipment needs (HPLC, UV-vis spectrometers, syringe pumps) and commercial options like the Dr. Oligo XC synthesizer from Azco Biotech, which costs approximately $100,000 and supports both microarray and column-based synthesis formats.

• Technical details of DNA synthesis were explored, including the importance of keeping reactions free of water molecules that can interfere with the 5' OH group, and the distinction between synthesis, cleave, and deprotection steps in the process.

• Academic papers on RNA synthesis alternatives were shared, including "Liquid-Phase RNA Synthesis by Using Alkyl-Chain-Soluble Support," highlighting methods beyond traditional solid-phase synthesis.

• A video of an "oligomaker" device was discussed, showing a machine that synthesizes DNA in 192 columns arranged in a circle, along with a lecture by Szostak on non-enzymatic DNA synthesis.

• New England Biolabs was recommended as an excellent supplier for biological materials, with reports of generous free samples (worth approximately $1,000) and technical support from PhD research staff.

• The MIT report on Aaron Swartz's case was criticized for assuming guilt and failing to address broader policy issues, with the report revealing that MIT restricted JSTOR access after Swartz's downloading incident.

• Participants discussed robotics projects, particularly hexapod walking robots and inverse kinematics, with agreement that replicating existing designs for educational purposes is ethical as long as original creators are credited.