In the 1980s, researchers first identified a gene that some breast cancer patients over-expressed. Then in the 90s, they created the first “personalized” medicine to target that particular gene. At the same time, a diagnostic tool was developed so that physicians and labs could test whether or not individual patients who had those genes could be targeted with the treatment.  

For five decades, Genentech has been fueled by a passion for science, driving us to explore uncharted territory and deliver groundbreaking discoveries that have fundamentally changed patients’ lives and reduced the burden of complex health challenges on society. As the original biotech company, we honor our 50-year legacy by applying the same innovative spirit—the one that creates life-changing therapies — to improve healthcare access and outcomes, ensuring our scientific breakthroughs have a real and positive impact on people’s lives.