# Key Points from Transhumanist and Biohacking IRC Discussions

• Researchers discussed the BXP3200 DNA synthesizer ($49,500) and a DNA synthesizer teardown project, noting technical details about Z80 processors and EPROM storage containing valve control logic for phosphoramidites, with the additional insight that phosphoramidite storage problems have been solved by freezer storage for up to a year.

• A significant paper on human-accelerated regulatory enhancer (HARE5) was shared, showing that when tested in mice, it caused 12% larger brain development compared to the chimp version, with researchers planning to test cognitive improvements and discussing how this might explain distinctive anatomical features of the human brain.

• Participants explored various biological expression systems for protein production and bioremediation, comparing organisms like bacteria, insects, and goats based on parameters such as lifecycle time, immune system capabilities, and contamination resistance.

• Technical discussions covered creating high-pressure environments (1 gigapascal) for chemical reactions using steel chambers, gas compressors, and diamond anvil cells, demonstrating the community's interest in advanced DIY laboratory techniques.

• The group shared innovative projects including the Flow beehive design that allows honey extraction without disturbing bees, and a proposed automated system for 3D scanning, weighing, and photographing objects with RFID tagging for hackerspace inventory management.

• Resources were exchanged on genetic algorithms for circuit design (genetic-programming.com), laser scanning technology (PyLatScan and Lasershark), and graph topology optimization for PCB layout and 3D mechanical design.

• Participants discussed the challenges of funding anti-aging research, noting public skepticism and suggesting that framing such initiatives as basic science advances might be more effective than positioning them as vanity projects.