# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Researchers discussed computational tools for engineering applications, including computational fluid dynamics software (CFD-ACE+ and OpenFOAM) and protein structure databases, with specific interest in using the Protein Data Bank for examining proteins like aquaporins and ferritin for potential engineering applications.

• The group explored cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) as an alternative to in-vivo methods, highlighting advantages such as faster production time (1-2 days versus 1-2 weeks), direct manipulation of reaction conditions, and easier incorporation of non-natural amino acids.

• Participants analyzed Craig Venter's genome synthesis project, noting that while the reported cost was $40 million, the actual DNA synthesis represented only about $330,000 ($0.30/bp), raising questions about resource allocation in pioneering synthetic biology work.

• The conversation covered microfluidic DNA synthesis technologies, comparing methods like Gibson Assembly with optical technologies including DMD masks, laser etchers, and projector-based photolithography systems, with debates about their resolution limitations.

• Members discussed electricity-responsive promoters in Geobacter sulfurreducens for controlling gene expression, noting this approach had been explored in previous IGEM projects, particularly by Missouri Miners teams working on similar biosensors.

• The group critiqued the concept of "shock levels" (from sl4.org) as an ineffective framework for categorizing people's familiarity with transhumanist concepts, arguing it poorly predicts someone's ability to contribute to engineering projects.

• Participants shared information about Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) as a DNA amplification method that works without temperature cycling, making it potentially valuable for field diagnostics in areas with unreliable electricity.