Running at the max

For those wondering how Genentech Inc. can possibly meet the anticipated demand for its growing list of biologics, the company recently provided a roadmap of its manufacturing plans over the next several years. It will be tight - the company expects to use nearly 100% of its capacity for the next several years, leaving little room for error.

DNA's problem is one that everyone in the industry would like to have. Positive clinical data in additional indications for the company's Avastin anti-VEGF MAb and Rituxan, an anti-CD20 MAb, are likely to tax DNA's production capacity, as doctors will probably begin prescribing the drugs for new indications - particularly Avastin for other cancers - even prior to FDA approval...