# Key Points from the IRC Conversation

• Microfluidics fabrication costs showed dramatic variation, with Stanford's former foundry offering multilayer devices for $450 while current commercial options quoted around $7,000 for one-off prototypes, prompting discussion of alternative rapid prototyping methods like inkjet printing on transparency with photoresist patterning.

• A DNA synthesis service from MYcroarray was highlighted, offering 20,000 oligonucleotides (100 nucleotides each) for $1,500, though with higher error rates than conventional methods, representing a cost-effective option for certain applications.

• A breakthrough paper on whole-brain imaging introduced CUBIC (clear, unobstructed brain imaging cocktails and computational analysis), enabling rapid whole-brain imaging with single-photon excitation microscopy at single-cell resolution.

• Significant progress in stem cell research was shared through a paper demonstrating successful human somatic cell nuclear transfer using dermal fibroblasts from 35- and 75-year-old males, expanding potential applications for regenerative medicine.

• The National Library of Medicine and Wellcome Trust formed a partnership to digitize 150 years of biomedical journals with £750,000 ($1.2 million) in funding, though questions were raised about copyright permissions for very old papers.

• Kepler-186f was discussed as the first Earth-sized planet discovered in the habitable zone of another star, located 500 light-years from Earth, marking a significant astronomical discovery.

• Novel biomimetic technologies were explored, including fishing line muscles with potential applications in quadcopters and 3D robotics, demonstrating interest in alternative actuation mechanisms.