EXHIBIT 23


         Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors



We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration 
Statement on Form S-8 pertaining to the Genentech, Inc. Tax Reduction 
Investment Plan of our report dated May 15, 1998, with respect to the 
financial statements and supplemental schedules of the Genentech, Inc. 
Tax Reduction Investment Plan included in this Annual Report (Form 11-K) 
for the year ended December 31, 1997.




                                                        ERNST & YOUNG LLP



San Jose, California
June 23, 1998