# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• DNA synthesis costs are rapidly decreasing, with Gen9's BioFab platform potentially offering synthesis at 3 cents per base pair, which could reduce human genome synthesis costs from $13 billion to approximately $1.5 billion.

• Participants identified rapid DNA/RNA synthesis as an underdeveloped area with significant innovation potential, despite there being "lots of talk, but no action" in the field.

• The conversation revealed a critique of molecular biology practitioners, suggesting many lack theoretical understanding of biomolecule behavior and cannot troubleshoot effectively when protocols fail.

• Participants discussed protein purification techniques in molecular biology, noting that affinity (nickel or protein-based), ion exchange, and size exclusion are the most common methods, with HPLC used for analysis and FPLC for larger-scale purification.

• A theoretical approach to countering stimulant addiction was proposed, combining TrkB agonists (like 7,8-dihydroxyflavone) with dopamine receptor antagonists to potentially "create people who are more attentive and motivated generally."

• The group explored the relationship between intelligence and conscientiousness, with one participant suggesting research indicates IQ is inversely correlated with conscientiousness.

• Ethical concerns were raised about developing and democratizing missile guidance systems, with one participant arguing this poses "a more imminent threat of ending civilization than Bitcoin or AGI."