But finding a protein’s gene often was a painstaking enterprise
that took years of effort. So, HGS and other genomics companies
decided to reverse the process by decoding human DNA on a
massive scale. They then could fish out genes and work forward,
biochemically speaking, to discover new proteins that are
involved in disease processes. It’s a rapid-fire approach that
William Haseltine, HGS’ CEO, has long said would produce a new
pharmacopeia. Starting last year, the company began making good
on the promise, introducing several candidates into early-stage
human clinical trials, including proteins for protecting bone-
marrow cells in chemotherapy patients and for facilitating wound
healing. The technology is also identifying hormones and enzymes
that conventional drugs can target. Genomics is responsible for
more than half the therapeutic targets that pharmaceutical giant
Bristol-Myers Squibb in Princeton, N.J., now has in its sights,
according to director of science and technology Ron Peppin. A
costly, uncerta