This is a study of the commercial development of biotechnology that compares the initiatives, activities and organization of two firms--Genentech in the United States and Kabi in Sweden--as they brought knowledge to the market in the form of insulin and the human growth hormone. Writing from a broad evolutionary perspective, Maureen McKelvey's important study of one of the most modern science-based technologies will be of interest to all concerned with understanding the processes of innovation.
Introduction
Evolutionary Innovations
Science and Technology Interacting
Understanding Genetic Engineering
Generating Research
The Early- to Mid-1970s
Generating Research
The Mid- to Late-1970s
Specific Firm Challenges, 1979-83
Multiple Uses and Markets for Human Growth Hormone
Conclusions for Evolutionary Economics
Conclusions for Science and Technology
Evolutionary Innovations...is fascinating, historically significant, and dramatic. --Nature Biotechnology ..fascinating.... The analysis of the historical developments of biotechnology is both rooted in theoretical ideas and a source of possible generalizations. We need more books of this type. --
EAEPE Newsletter Good reading for economists and others interested in the biotechnology industry. --
Choice ...well-written and thoroughly researched....Her study makes an important contribution to the development of that theory and to the growing body of work on the history of biotechnology and innovation. --
Technology and Culture