# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• The Baker Lab published significant papers on protein design, demonstrating advances in creating programmable 2D protein lattices that could enable new nanomaterial engineering applications and structure determination methods.

• Participants explored the development of molecular machines beyond differential gears, discussing components like antennae arrays, rod arrays, polymerase clamps, and springs that could serve as building blocks for nanoscale engineering.

• A technical comparison of DNA synthesis technologies contrasted traditional POSAM (Programmable Oligonucleotide Synthesizer Applying Microfluidics) with emerging nanopore-based approaches using Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) enzymes.

• Microfluidic device fabrication was debated, with proposals to use Focused Ion Beam (FIB) technology to create on-chip peristaltic pumps, mixing areas, and nanopores for nucleotide detection in next-generation DNA synthesis systems.

• The availability of affordable used Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs) on eBay ($800-3500) was noted as a potential opportunity for DIY nanofabrication efforts, with specific discussion of a working JEOL T330A model.

• Biological coordination mechanisms were explored through firefly synchronization research from Harvard, suggesting potential applications for technological systems requiring distributed coordination.

• Discussions touched on cutting-edge companies at the intersection of biology and technology, including Emulate Bio (organ-on-chip), Keyssa (wireless connectivity), and Voxel8 (3D electronics printing).