The recent passing of William (Bill) Rutter at the age of 97 underscores the significant contributions of early biotech pioneers to the industry. Rutter, a key figure in the late 1970s, played a pivotal role in the cloning of the insulin gene at UCSF, competing with notable groups such as Biogen and Genentech. His efforts in recombinant DNA technology not only advanced insulin production but also set the stage for the approval of the hepatitis B surface antigen, a landmark achievement in biotechnology.
Rutter’s legacy continued with the founding of Chiron, where he was instrumental in cloning the hepatitis C virus and sequencing the HIV genome. The acquisition of Cetus, known for its PCR technology, further solidified Chiron’s position in the industry. As the biotech landscape evolves, reflecting on the contributions of figures like Rutter and other contemporaries highlights the foundational work that has shaped modern therapeutics and diagnostics, reminding industry professionals of the importance of innovation and collaboration in overcoming future challenges.
Start your 7-day trial and see what the database can do →
