# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Participants were collaboratively developing a DIY transhumanist wiki at diyhpl.us, working through technical challenges with Markdown formatting including bullet points, indentation, and nested directives.

• A Presidential Bioethics Committee report on neuroscience was criticized for raising what some participants viewed as unnecessary ethical concerns about cognitive enhancement, particularly regarding equitable access and risk management.

• The discussion explored evidence suggesting patents may hinder rather than promote innovation, referencing empirical research by Andrew Torrance and considering alternative systems that separate technology disclosure from monopoly-granting functions.

• A user shared animated protein visualizations showing PRPP and adenine binding sites across seven protein homologs, demonstrating advanced work in protein structure analysis.

• The group discussed sophisticated protein engineering techniques, particularly PACE (Phage-Assisted Continuous Evolution), which uses engineered bacteria and phage in "lagoons" to rapidly evolve biomolecules with desired properties.

• Participants noted the shift in scientific knowledge from broader understanding 100 years ago to today's hyper-specialization, with some advocating for the value of interdisciplinary connections.

• A channel member reported receiving their 23andMe genetic testing results (including 3.1% Neanderthal DNA) and sought alternative services for health-related genetic analysis after 23andMe discontinued those features.