# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (August 7, 2015)

• NanoEngineer-1, a molecular design tool developed by Nanorex (2004-2008) with ~$1M/year in funding, was open-sourced after the company closed, though it suffered from architectural limitations including poor separation of GUI components and insufficient testing.

• Researchers discussed a paper on chemical treatments that transform skin cells into neurons, potentially offering an alternative to gene insertion methods for cellular reprogramming.

• Octopus chromatophores (color-changing skin cells) were explored as a potential high-bandwidth communication method, with evidence shared that these cells are under direct nervous system control through individually innervated muscle fibers.

• The group discussed ethical implications of enhancing animal intelligence, particularly in whales and octopuses, considering the challenges of creating intelligent creatures with limited communication capabilities.

• BackyardBrains' work connecting squid chromatophores to audio signals was highlighted as a demonstration of controlling biological display mechanisms with external stimulation.

• A technical discussion of hard drive technology covered Shingled Magnetic Recording (SMR), Heat-assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR), and the physics of modern write heads, including current storage density achievements (848 Gbit/in² as of 2014).

• DIY approaches to molecular biology were discussed, including a video showing extraction of Taq polymerase from bacteria in remote locations, reflecting the channel's interest in accessible biotechnology.