While we were in San Francisco we had the opportunity to visit the Biotech company Genentech. Genentech “…uses human genetic information to discover, develop, commercialize, and manufacture biotherapeutics that address significant unmet medical needs”. Several of their more well-known drugs are Herceptin and Avastin, both used in anti-cancer therapy. A representative led us on a tour of the sprawling company throughout several labs with fascinating and innovative equipment.

Several of the technologies used in the Genentech laboratories include methods that we have either learned or practiced in laboratories here at UofM-Flint. Recombinant DNA technology, which students are able to experience in the Molecular Biology of Prokaryotes laboratory at UofM-Flint, is the technology at the foundation of biotechnology and Genentech. Other technologies that they utilize include genomics, computer visualization of molecules, microarrays, sensitive assaying techniques, and other advances in molecular biology.

If you would like more information about Genentech, you can visit their website at http://www.gene.com/gene/index.jsp.