# Key Points from Transhumanist IRC Discussions

• Researchers discussed a sugar-powered biobattery with energy density claims of 10x that of lithium-ion batteries, with supporting evidence published in Nature Communications.

• The technical feasibility of creating bioluminescent humans was analyzed in detail, covering various transfection methods including CRISPR, TALENs, and Golden Gate, with particular focus on delivery vectors like Lipofectamine-3000, adenoviruses, and polymer-DNA complexes.

• Participants explored optogenetic triggers as potential mechanisms to control bioluminescent effects in modified tissues, referencing Ed Boyden's work with neurons and discussing how different light frequencies could serve as "on" and "off" switches.

• A DIY atomic force microscope project called "lego2nano" was shared, demonstrating how LEGO and Arduino components could be used to create a microscope with nanometer resolution.

• The conversation revealed upcoming commercial developments in genetic modification, with mentions of new transfection reagents priced around $700 for a kit capable of fully transfecting one mouse.

• A philosophical debate emerged regarding transhumanist priorities, contrasting individual enhancement approaches versus global enhancement of humanity as competing paradigms.