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Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011	Feb. 01, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2011
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2011
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	SANGAMO BIOSCIENCES INC
Entity Central Index Key	0001001233
Trading Symbol	SGMO
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		52,554,795
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Public Float			$ 294,045,039
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 16,766	$ 10,784
Marketable securities	67,366	49,501
Interest receivable	331	337
Accounts receivable	919	366
Prepaid expenses	310	326
Total current assets	85,692	61,314
Property and equipment, net	1,603	1,673
Other assets	41	12
Total assets	87,336	62,999
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	5,515	5,654
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	1,672	1,357
Deferred revenue	17	81
Total current liabilities	7,204	7,092
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 80,000,000 shares authorized, 52,554,795 and 45,377,739 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively	526	454
Additional paid-in capital	332,839	272,954
Accumulated deficit	(253,245)	(217,495)
Accumulated other comprehensive income / (loss)	12	(6)
Total stockholders' equity	80,132	55,907
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 87,336	$ 62,999

Consolidated Statements Of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Revenues:
Collaboration agreements	$ 6,110	$ 16,819	$ 21,553
Research grants	4,209	3,986	634
Total revenues	10,319	20,805	22,187
Operating expenses:
Research and development	32,098	33,154	28,984
General and administrative	14,042	12,586	12,605
Total operating expenses	46,140	45,740	41,589
Loss from operations	(35,821)	(24,935)	(19,402)
Interest income, net	71	81	547
Other income			268
Net loss	$ (35,750)	$ (24,854)	$ (18,587)
Basic and diluted net loss per share	$ (0.71)	$ (0.55)	$ (0.44)
Shares used in computing basic and diluted net loss per share	50,512	45,167	42,048

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member] Underwritten Public Offering [Member]	Common Stock [Member] License Agreements [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] Underwritten Public Offering [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] License Agreements [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/ (Loss) [Member]	Underwritten Public Offering [Member]	License Agreements [Member]	Total
Balances at Dec. 31, 2008			$ 410			$ 228,764	$ (174,054)	$ 276			$ 55,396
Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2008			41,057,077
Issuance of common stock	$ 30	$ 6		$ 20,830	$ 4,911				$ 20,860	$ 4,917
Issuance of common stock, shares	3,000,000	636,133
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units			$ 2			486					488
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units, shares			160,159
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan			$ 2			497					499
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan, shares			141,040
Stock-based compensation						8,467					8,467
Comprehensive loss:
Net unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities								(258)			(258)
Net loss							(18,587)				(18,587)
Comprehensive loss											(18,845)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2009			$ 450			263,955	(192,641)	18			71,782
Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2009			44,994,409
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units			$ 2			736					738
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units, shares			249,156
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan			$ 2			445					447
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan, shares			134,174
Stock-based compensation						7,818					7,818
Comprehensive loss:
Net unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities								(24)			(24)
Net loss							(24,854)				(24,854)
Comprehensive loss											(24,878)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2010			$ 454			272,954	(217,495)	(6)			55,907
Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2010			45,377,739
Issuance of common stock	$ 67			$ 50,152					$ 50,219
Issuance of common stock, shares	6,700,000
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units			$ 3			1,191					1,194
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options and in connection with restricted stock units, shares			324,416
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan			$ 2			461					463
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan, shares			152,640
Stock-based compensation						8,081					8,081
Comprehensive loss:
Net unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities								18			18
Net loss							(35,750)				(35,750)
Comprehensive loss											(35,732)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2011			$ 526			$ 332,839	$ (253,245)	$ 12			$ 80,132
Balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2011			52,554,795

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Operating activities:
Net loss	$ (35,750)	$ (24,854)	$ (18,587)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	646	676	572
Amortization of premium / discount on marketable securities	1,576	1,187	288
Stock-based compensation	8,081	7,818	8,467
Net loss on disposal of property and equipment			34
Other			(302)
Net changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Interest receivable	6	4	(147)
Accounts receivable	(553)	(297)	431
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(13)	97	(96)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(139)	3,196	(1,390)
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	315	(28)	997
Deferred revenue	(64)	(11,733)	3,596
Net cash used in operating activities	(25,895)	(23,934)	(6,137)
Investing activities:
Purchases of marketable securities	(112,974)	(100,027)	(79,406)
Maturities of marketable securities	83,411	113,096	60,500
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities	10,139
Purchases of property and equipment	(576)	(695)	(272)
Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities	(20,000)	12,374	(19,178)
Financing activities:
Issuance of common stock	51,877	1,185	21,846
Net cash provided by financing activities	51,877	1,185	26,763
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash			302
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	5,982	(10,375)	1,750
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	10,784	21,159	19,409
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 16,766	$ 10,784	21,159
License Agreements [Member]
Financing activities:
Issuance of common stock			$ 4,917

Organization And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Organization And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Organization And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

NOTE 1 – ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Sangamo

Sangamo BioSciences, Inc. (the Company) was incorporated in the State of Delaware on June 22, 1995 and is focused on the development and commercialization of novel transcription factors for gene regulation and gene modification. Sangamo's gene regulation and gene modification technology platform is enabled by the engineering of a class of transcription factors known as zinc finger DNA-binding proteins (ZFPs). Potential applications of Sangamo's technology include development of human therapeutics, plant agriculture and enhancement of pharmaceutical protein production. Sangamo will require additional financial resources to complete the development and commercialization of its products including ZFP Therapeutics.

Sangamo is currently working on a number of long-term development projects that will involve experimental and unproven technology. The projects may require several years and substantial expenditures to complete and ultimately may be unsuccessful. The Company plans to finance operations with available cash resources, funds received under research grants and collaborations and strategic partnerships, and from the issuance of equity or debt securities. Sangamo believes that its available cash, cash equivalents and investments as of December 31, 2011, along with expected revenues collaborations and strategic partnerships, will be adequate to fund its operations through 2013. Sangamo will need to raise substantial additional capital to fund subsequent operations and complete the development and commercialization of its products either through significant corporate partnerships, research grants or issuance of equity securities. Sangamo may seek to raise additional capital when conditions permit; however, there is no assurance funding will be available on favorable terms, if at all.

Basis of Presentation

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sangamo and its wholly owned subsidiary, Gendaq Limited, after elimination of all intercompany balances and transactions.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Sangamo considers all highly liquid investments purchased with original maturities of three months or less at the purchase date to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of deposits in money market investment accounts, government sponsored entity debt securities, US Treasury debt securities and corporate bank accounts.

Marketable Securities

Sangamo classifies its marketable securities as available-for-sale and records its investments at estimated fair value based on quoted market prices or observable market inputs of almost identical assets, with the unrealized holding gains and losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income.

The Company's investments are subject to a periodic impairment review. The Company recognizes an impairment charge when a decline in the fair value of its investments below the cost basis is judged to be other-than-temporary. The Company considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than the Company's cost basis, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, and the Company's intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in the market value. Realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are included in other (expense)/income, which is determined using the specific identification method.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts for financial instruments consisting of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Marketable securities are stated at their estimated fair values, based on quoted market prices for the same or similar instruments. The counterparties to the agreements relating to the Company's investment securities consist of the US Treasury, various major corporations, governmental agencies and financial institutions with high credit standing.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the related assets (generally three to five years). For leasehold improvements, amortization is calculated using the straight-line method based on the shorter of the useful life or the lease term. The Company reviews its property, plant and equipment assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

Foreign Currency Translation

The functional currency of the Company's foreign subsidiary, Gendaq Limited, is the U.S. dollar. Monetary assets and liabilities which are denominated in foreign currency are remeasured at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Nonmonetary assets and liabilities, if any, are remeasured at the historical exchange rates. Income and expenses are remeasured using the average exchange rate for the period. Gains and losses from remeasurement of the foreign subsidiary's financial statements are recorded as other income / (expense). During the third quarter of 2009, the cash balance held at Gendaq was transferred to Sangamo's U.S. investment account, eliminating foreign currency remeasurement gains and losses.

In 2011 and 2010, the Company did not record foreign currency remeasurement gains or losses. In 2009, the Company recorded a foreign currency remeasurement gain of $0.3 million.

Comprehensive Loss

Comprehensive loss is comprised of net loss and other comprehensive income (loss) which primarily consist of unrealized gains/(losses) on marketable securities. Comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 is included in the statement of stockholders' equity.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from research activities made under strategic partnering agreements and collaborations is recognized as the services are provided when there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenue generated from research and licensing agreements typically includes upfront signing or license fees, cost reimbursements, minimum sublicense fees, milestone payments and royalties on future licensee's product sales.

Multiple Element Arrangements prior to the adoption of ASU No. 2009-13, Revenue Recognition—Multiple Deliverable Revenue Arrangements (ASU 2009-13). For revenue arrangements entered into before January 1, 2011, that include multiple deliverables, the elements of such agreement were divided into separate units of accounting if the deliverables met certain criteria, including whether the fair value of the delivered items could be determined and whether there was evidence of fair value of the undelivered items. In addition, the consideration was allocated among the separate units of accounting based on their fair values, and the applicable revenue recognition criteria are considered separately for each of the separate units of accounting. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2009-13, the Company recognized nonrefundable signing, license or non-exclusive option fees as revenue when rights to use the intellectual property related to the license were delivered and over the period of performance obligations if the Company had continuing performance obligations. The Company estimated the performance period at the inception of the arrangement and reevaluated it each reporting period. Changes to these estimates were recorded on a prospective basis.

Multiple Element Arrangements after the adoption of ASU 2009-13. ASU 2009-13 amended the accounting standards for certain multiple element revenue arrangements to:

•

provide updated guidance on whether multiple elements exist, how the elements in an arrangement should be separated, and how the arrangement consideration should be allocated to the separate elements;

•

require an entity to allocate arrangement consideration to each element based on a selling price hierarchy, also called the relative selling price method, where the selling price for an element is based on vendor-specific objective evidence ("VSOE"), if available; third-party evidence ("TPE"), if available and VSOE is not available; or the best estimate of selling price ("ESP"), if neither VSOE nor TPE is available; and

•

eliminate the use of the residual method and require an entity to allocate arrangement consideration using the selling price hierarchy.

Since adoption of ASU 2009-13, the Company has not entered into new agreements and recognized revenues under this standard as of December 31, 2011. For future revenue agreements with multiple element arrangements, such as license and development agreements, the Company will allocate revenue to each non-contingent element based on the relative selling price of each element. When applying the relative selling price method, the Company determines the selling price for each deliverable using VSOE of selling price or TPE of selling price. If neither exists the Company uses ESP for that deliverable. Revenue allocated is then recognized when the basic four revenue recognition criteria are met for each element.

Additionally, the Company recognizes milestone payments, which are subject to substantive contingencies, upon completion of specified milestones, which represents the culmination of an earnings process, according to contract terms. Fees from licensees upon sublicensing Sangamo technologies by them to third parties (sublicense fees) are recognized as revenue in the period such fees are due. Minimum annual sublicense fees are also recognized as revenue in the period in which such fees are due. Royalties are generally recognized as revenue upon the receipt of the related royalty payment. The Company recognizes cost reimbursement revenue under collaborative agreements as the related research and development costs for services are rendered. Deferred revenue represents the portion of research or license payments received which have not been earned.

Sangamo's research grants are typically multi-year agreements and provide for the reimbursement of qualified expenses for research and development as defined under the terms of the grant agreement. Revenue under grant agreements is recognized when the related qualified research expenses are incurred.

During 2011, revenues related to Sigma-Aldrich Corporation (Sigma), Dow AgroSciences LLC (DAS), California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) and CHDI Foundation, Inc. (CHDI) represented 15%, 43%, 18% and 11% of total revenues, respectively. During 2010, revenues related to Sigma and DAS represented 59% and 21%, respectively, of total revenues. During 2009, revenues related to Sigma and DAS represented 50% and 40%, respectively, of total revenues.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development expenses consist of direct and research-related allocated overhead costs such as facilities costs, salaries and related personnel costs, and material and supply costs. In addition, research and development expenses include costs related to clinical trials, validation of our testing processes and procedures and as well as related overhead expenses. Research and development costs incurred in connection with collaborator-funded activities are expensed as incurred. Costs to acquire technologies that are utilized in research and development that have no alternative future use are expensed as incurred.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company measures and recognizes compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to Sangamo employees and directors, including employee share options, restricted stuck units (RSUs) and employee share purchases related to the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP), based on estimated fair values at grant date. The fair value of equity-based awards is amortized over the vesting period of the award using a straight-line method.

To estimate the value of an award, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model. This model requires inputs such as expected life, expected volatility and risk-free interest rate. These inputs are subjective and generally require significant analysis and judgment to develop. While estimates of expected life and volatility are derived primarily from the Company's historical data, the risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant commensurate with the expected life assumption. Further, the Company is required to estimate forfeitures at the time of grant and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. The Company uses historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and record stock-based compensation expense only for those awards that are expected to vest.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense has been provided using the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities as measured by the enacted tax rates that will be in effect when these differences reverse. The Company provides a valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is not more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized.

Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per share has been computed by dividing the net loss by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share is calculated by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potential dilutive securities outstanding during the period.

Because Sangamo is in a net loss position, diluted net loss per share excludes the effects of common stock equivalents consisting of options, which are all anti-dilutive. The total stock options outstanding excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share at the end of 2011, 2010 and 2009 were 8,346,190, 8,109,901 and 7,469,501, respectively.

Segments

The Company operates in one segment. Management uses one measurement of profitability and does not segregate its business for internal reporting. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, all of the Company's assets were maintained in the U.S. For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, 100% of revenues and operating expenses were generated and incurred in the U.S.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-13. ASU 2009-13 updates revenue recognition standards for arrangements with multiple elements. The revised guidance provides for two significant changes to the existing multiple-element arrangements guidance. The first relates to the determination of when the individual deliverables included in a multiple-element arrangement may be treated as separate units of accounting. This change is significant as it will likely result in the requirement to separate more deliverables within an arrangement. The second change modifies the manner in which the transaction consideration is allocated across the separately identifiable deliverables. The Company may be required to exercise considerable judgment in determining the estimated selling price of delivered items under new agreements. The Company adopted this guidance prospectively beginning January 1, 2011. There was no effect on 2011 financial statements as the Company did not enter into or materially amend any such agreements. However, the Company expects that this adoption could have a material impact on its financial statements going forward, including on the accounting for the collaboration agreement with Shire AG (Shire).

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure, and significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. May be provided in more than one note to the financial statements, as long as users are provided with an understanding of (1) the significant judgments and assumptions made by an enterprise in determining whether it must consolidate a VIE and/or disclose information about its involvement with a VIE, (2) the nature of restrictions on a consolidated VIE's assets reported by an enterprise in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets, (3) the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with an enterprise's involvement with the VIE, and (4) how an enterprise's involvement with the VIE affects the enterprise's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Describes procedure if disclosures are provided in more than one note to the financial statements.

+ References + Details

Investments And Fair Value Measurement

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Investments And Fair Value Measurement [Abstract]

Investments And Fair Value Measurement

NOTE 2 – INVESTMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

The table below summarizes the Company's available-for-sale securities (in thousands):


	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized (Losses)			Estimated Fair Value
December 31, 2011
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	15,258		—		—		$	15,258

Total		15,258		—		—			15,258

Marketable securities:
U.S. government sponsored entity debt securities		27,020		—		(7	)		27,013
U.S. treasury debt securities		751		1		—			752
Corporate debt securities		39,583		18		—			39,601

Total		67,354		19		(7	)		67,366

Total cash equivalents and marketable securities	$	82,612	$	19	$	(7	)	$	82,624

December 31, 2010
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	9,390		—		—		$	9,390

Total		9,390		—		—			9,390

Marketable securities:
U.S. government sponsored entity debt securities		42,141		—		(6	)		42,135
U.S. treasury debt securities		4,806		1		—			4,807
Corporate debt securities		2,560		—		(1	)		2,559

Total		49,507		1		(7	)		49,501

Total cash equivalents and marketable securities	$	58,897	$	1	$	(7	)	$	58,891

As of December 31, 2011, all of investments had maturity dates within one year and there were no material unrealized losses during 2011. The Company had no realized losses for the year ended December 31, 2011 and no other-than-temporary impairments of available-for-sale securities for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.

Fair Value Measurement

The Company measures certain financial assets at fair value on a recurring basis, including cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities. The fair value of these assets was determined based on a three-tier hierarchy under the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures that prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:

Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;

Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability;

Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).

The fair value measurements of cash equivalents and available-for-sale marketable securities are identified at the following levels within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands):


	December 31, 2011 Fair Value Measurements
	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	15,258	$	15,258	$	—	$	—

Total		15,258		15,258		—		—
Marketable securities:
U.S. government sponsored entity debt securities		27,013		—		27,013		—
U.S. treasury debt securities		752		—		752		—
Corporate debt securities		39,601		—		39,601		—

Total		67,366		—		67,366		—

Total cash equivalents and marketable securities	$	82,624	$	15,258	$	67,366	$	—


	December 31, 2010 Fair Value Measurements
	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	9,390	$	9,390	$	—	$	—

Total		9,390		9,390		—		—
Marketable securities:
U.S. government sponsored entity debt securities		42,135		—		42,135		—
U.S. treasury debt securities		4,807		—		4,807		—
Corporate debt securities		2,559		—		2,559		—

Total		49,501		—		49,501		—

Total cash equivalents and marketable securities

Major Customers, Partnerships And Strategic Alliances	12 Months Ended
Major Customers, Partnerships And Strategic Alliances	Dec. 31, 2011
Major Customers, Partnerships And Strategic Alliances [Abstract]
Major Customers, Partnerships And Strategic Alliances	NOTE 4 – MAJOR CUSTOMERS, PARTNERSHIPS AND STRATEGIC ALLIANCES Collaboration Agreements *Agreement with Sigma-Aldrich Corporation in Laboratory Research Reagents, Transgenic Animal and Commercial Protein Production Cell-line Engineering* In July 2007, Sangamo entered into a license agreement with Sigma. Under the license agreement, Sangamo agreed to provide Sigma with access to its proprietary ZFP technology and the exclusive right to use the technology to develop and commercialize research reagent products and services in the research field, excluding certain agricultural research uses that Sangamo previously licensed to Dow AgroSciences LLC. Under the agreement, Sangamo and Sigma agreed to conduct a three-year research program to develop laboratory research reagents using Sangamo's ZFP technology during which time Sangamo agreed to assist Sigma in connection with its efforts to market and sell services employing the Company's ZFP technology in the research field. Sangamo has transferred the ZFP manufacturing technology to Sigma. In October 2009, Sangamo expanded its license agreement with Sigma. In addition to the original terms of the license agreement, Sigma received exclusive rights to develop and distribute ZFP-modified cell lines for commercial production of protein pharmaceuticals and certain ZFP-engineered transgenic animals for commercial applications. Under the terms of the agreement, Sigma made an upfront cash payment of $20.0 million consisting of a $4.9 million purchase of 636,133 shares of Sangamo common stock, valued at $4.9 million, and a $15.1 million upfront license fee. The upfront license fee was recognized on a straight-line basis from the effective date of the expanded license through July 2010, which represents the period over which Sangamo was obligated to perform research services for Sigma. Sangamo is also eligible to receive commercial license fees of $5.0 million based upon a percentage of net sales and sublicensing revenue and thereafter a reduced royalty rate of 10.5% of net sales and sublicensing revenue. In addition, upon the achievement of certain cumulative commercial milestones Sigma will make milestone payments to Sangamo up to an aggregate of $25.0 million. License fee and milestone revenues related to the Sigma agreements were $0.7 million, $11.6 million and $11.1 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Royalty revenues under the Sigma agreement were $0.9 million, $0.7 million and $0.3 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Related costs and expenses incurred under the Sigma agreement were $0.5 million, $1.2 million and $2.6 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. *Agreement with Dow AgroSciences in Plant Agriculture* In October 2005, Sangamo entered into an exclusive commercial license with DAS. Under this agreement, Sangamo is providing DAS with access to its proprietary ZFP technology and the exclusive right to use the technology to modify the genomes or alter the nucleic acid or protein expression of plant cells, plants, or plant cell cultures. Sangamo has retained rights to use plants or plant-derived products to deliver ZFP transcription factors (ZFP TFs) or ZFP nucleases (ZFNs) into humans or animals for diagnostic, therapeutic, or prophylactic purposes. The Company's agreement with DAS provided for an initial three-year research term. In June 2008, DAS exercised its option under the agreement to obtain a commercial license to sell products incorporating or derived from plant cells generated using the Company's ZFP technology, including agricultural crops, industrial products and plant-derived biopharmaceuticals. The exercise of the option triggered a one-time commercial license fee of $6.0 million, payment of the remaining $2.3 million of the previously agreed $4.0 million in research milestones, development and commercialization milestone payments for each product, and royalties on sales of products. Furthermore, DAS has the right to sublicense Sangamo's ZFP technology to third parties for use in plant cells, plants, or plant cell cultures, and Sangamo will be entitled to 25% of any cash consideration received by DAS under such sublicenses. In December 2010, the Company amended its agreement with DAS to extend the period of reagent manufacturing services through December 31, 2011 and research services through December 31, 2012. The agreement also provides for minimum sublicense fees each year due to Sangamo every October, provided the agreement is not terminated by DAS. Annual fees range from $250,000 to $3.0 million and total $25.3 million over 11 years. The Company does not have any performance obligations with respect to the sublicensing activities to be conducted by DAS. DAS has the right to terminate the agreement at any time; accordingly, the Company's actual sublicense fees over the term of the agreement could be lower than $25.3 million. In addition, each party may terminate the agreement upon an uncured material breach of the agreement by the other party. In the event of any termination of the agreement, all rights to use the Company's ZFP technology will revert to Sangamo, and DAS will no longer be permitted to practice Sangamo's ZFP technology or to develop or, except in limited circumstances, commercialize any products derived from the Company's ZFP technology. Revenues under the agreement were $4.5 million, $4.4 million and $8.8 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Related costs and expenses incurred under the agreement were $0.9 million, $0.7 million and $0.6 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Funding from Research Foundations *California Institute for Regenerative Medicine* In October 2009, the CIRM, a State of California entity, granted a $14.5 million Disease Team Research Award to develop an AIDS-related lymphoma therapy based on the application of ZFN gene-editing technology in stem cells. The four year grant supports an innovative research project conducted by a multidisciplinary team of investigators, including investigators from the University of Southern California, City of Hope National Medical Center and Sangamo BioSciences. Sangamo expects to receive funding up to $5.2 million from the total amount awarded based on expenses incurred for research and development efforts by Sangamo as prescribed in the agreement, and subject to its terms and conditions. The award is intended to substantially fund Sangamo's research and development efforts related to the agreement. The State of California has the right to receive, subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement between Sangamo and CIRM, payments from Sangamo resulting from sales of a commercial product resulting from research and development efforts supported by the grant, not to exceed two times the amount Sangamo receives in funding under the agreement with CIRM. Revenues attributable to research and development performed under the CIRM grant agreement for AIDS-related lymphoma therapy were $1.7 million, $1.0 million and $0 during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. *CHDI Foundation, Inc.* In April 2011, Sangamo entered into an agreement with the CHDI to develop a novel therapeutic for Huntington's disease based on Sangamo's proprietary ZFP technology. The ZFP therapeutic approach will target the gene that causes Huntington's disease, an inherited neurodegenerative disease for which there are currently no therapies available to slow the disease progression. Under the agreement with CHDI, and subject to its terms and conditions, CHDI will pay the Company $1.3 million, the total funds due under the agreement, over a period of one year which is intended to substantially fund the Company's research efforts related to the agreement. Revenues attributable to research and development performed under the CHDI collaboration agreement were $1.1 million during 2011. *The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research* In January 2007, Sangamo entered into an agreement with the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF) to provide financial support of a program to develop Sangamo's ZFP TFs to activate the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) that has shown promise in preclinical testing to slow or stop the progression of Parkinson's disease. Under the agreement with MJFF, and subject to its terms and conditions, MJFF paid the Company $1.0 million, the total funds due under the agreement, over a period of two years. In June 2010, Sangamo received a commitment for renewed funding from MJFF to support further studies of ZFP TF activators of GDNF. Subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement, the $0.9 million award was paid over a period of two years and was intended to substantially fund the Company's research efforts related to the agreement. As of December 31, 2011, all revenues under the agreement have been recognized. Revenues attributable to research and development performed under the MJFF agreement were $0.4 million in 2011 and 2010 and $0 in 2009. *The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International* In October 2006, Sangamo entered into an agreement with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF) to provide financial support for one of Sangamo's Phase 2 human clinical studies (SB-509-601) of the Company's product candidate SB-509, a ZFP Therapeutic ^® that was in development for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. In January 2010, JDRF and Sangamo amended the agreement and, subject to its terms and conditions, JDRF agreed to provide additional funding of up to $3.0 million for a Phase 2b trial in diabetic neuropathy (SB-509-901) which was intended to partially fund expenses related to the trial. Under the amended agreement, Sangamo was obligated to use commercially reasonable efforts to carry out the Phase 2b trial and, thereafter, to develop and commercialize a product containing SB-509 for the treatment of diabetes and complications of diabetes. Sangamo is obligated to cover all costs of the Phase 2b trial that are not covered by JDRF's grant. On October 3, 2011, the Company announced that the SB-509-901 trial did not meet its primary or secondary clinical endpoints in subjects with moderate severity diabetic neuropathy as compared to placebo. Further, the Company decided not to pursue additional clinical development of the SB-509 program. Upon termination of the program and pursuant to the terms of the agreement, JDRF may have the right, subject to certain limitations, to obtain an exclusive, sublicensable license, to the intellectual property generated by the Company in the course of the Phase 2b trial, to make and commercialize products containing SB-509 for the treatment of diabetes and complications of diabetes. If JDRF obtains such a license, it is obligated to pay Sangamo a percentage of its revenues from product sales and sublicensing arrangements. If JDRF fails to satisfy its obligations to develop and commercialize a product containing SB-509 under the agreement, then their license rights will terminate and Sangamo will receive a non-exclusive, fully paid license, for any intellectual property developed during JDRF's use of the license, to research, develop and commercialize products containing SB-509 for the treatment of diabetes and complications of diabetes. Revenues attributable to research and development activities performed under the JDRF agreements were $0.5 million, $1.5 million and $0.5 million during 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Funding from Other Sources *Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Program* In October 2010, Sangamo was awarded a total of $1.0 million in grants for four qualifying therapeutic discovery projects under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. There was no such funding in 2011 or 2009.

Stockholders' Equity

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]

Stockholders' Equity

NOTE 7 – STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Convertible Preferred Stock

All outstanding convertible preferred stock converted into common stock upon consummation of the Company's initial public offering in April 2000. The Company has 5,000,000 preferred shares authorized, which may be issued at the Board's discretion.

Common Stock

In April 2011, Sangamo completed an underwritten public offering of its common stock, in which the Company sold an aggregate of 6,700,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $7.70 per share. The net proceeds to Sangamo from the sale of shares in this offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other estimated offering expenses, were approximately $50.2 million.

In October 2009, pursuant to the expansion of the license agreement with Sigma, Sangamo issued 636,000 shares of common stock valued at a price of $7.73 per share for aggregate proceeds of $4.9 million.

In October 2009, Sangamo completed an underwritten public offering of its common stock, in which Sangamo sold an aggregate of 3,000,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $7.20 per share, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $20.9 million.

Stock Incentive Plan

Sangamo's 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2004 Plan), which supersedes the 2000 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2000 Plan), provides for the issuance of common stock and grants of options for common stock to employees, officers, directors and consultants. The exercise price per share will be no less than 85 percent of the fair value per share of common stock on the option grant date, and the option term will not exceed ten years. If the person to whom the option is granted is a 10 percent stockholder, and the option granted qualifies as an Incentive Stock Option Grant, then the exercise price per share will not be less than 110 percent of the fair value per share of common stock on the option grant date, and the option term will not exceed five years. Options granted under the 2004 Plan generally vest over four years at a rate of 25 percent one year from the grant date and one thirty-sixth per month thereafter and expire ten years after the grant, or earlier upon employment termination. Options granted under the 2004 Plan may be exercised prior to vesting, with the related shares subject to Sangamo's right to repurchase the shares that have not vested at the issue price if the option holder terminates employment. The right of repurchase lapses over the original option vesting period, as described above. Approximately 6.5 million shares were initially reserved for issuance pursuant to the 2000 Plan and the 2004 Plan. The number of shares authorized for issuance under the 2004 Plan automatically increases on the first trading day of the fiscal year by an amount equal to 3% of the total number of shares of the Company's common stock outstanding on the last trading day of the preceding fiscal year, but in no event shall any such increase exceed 1.75 million shares per year. During 2011, 2010 and 2009, 1,361,332, 1,349,832 and 1,231,712 additional shares, respectively, were authorized for issuance under the 2004 Plan pursuant to the evergreen increase feature of such plan.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Sangamo's 2010 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Purchase Plan), which supersedes the 2000 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, provides a total reserve of 2,100,000 shares of common stock for issuance under the Purchase Plan. Eligible employees may purchase common stock at 85 percent of the lesser of the fair market value of Sangamo's common stock on the first day of the applicable two-year offering period or the last day of the applicable six-month purchase period.

The weighted-average estimated fair value per share of ESPP purchase rights during 2011, 2010 and 2009 were $1.62, $2.76 and $3.11, respectively, based upon the assumptions in the Black-Scholes valuation model described in Note 1.

Stock Option Activity

A summary of Sangamo's stock option activity is as follows:


	Number of Shares			Weighted- Average Exercise per Share Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
						(In years)
Options outstanding at December 31, 2010		8,109,901		$	6.54		7.30
Options granted		836,000		$	4.65
Options exercised		(303,353	)	$	4.10
Options canceled		(296,358	)	$	11.04

Options outstanding at December 31, 2011		8,346,190		$	6.28		6.78

Options exercisable at December 31, 2011		5,455,800		$	7.00		5.84

There were no shares subject to Sangamo's right of repurchase as of December 31, 2011. The intrinsic value of options exercised during 2011 was $1.0 million and the intrinsic value of options exercised during both 2010 and 2009 was $0.5 million.

At December 31, 2011, the aggregate intrinsic values of the outstanding and exercisable options were $0.1 million and $16,122, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of shares vested and expected to vest during 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $0.1 million, $11.2 million, $7.4 million, respectively.

The weighted-average fair value per share of options granted during 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $3.20, $3.85 and $3.61, respectively, based upon the assumption in the Black-Scholes valuation model described in Note 1.

The following table summarizes information with respect to stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011:


	Options Outstanding and Exercisable				Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Price	Number of Shares of common stock subject to options		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life		Number of Shares of common stock subject to options		Weighted Average Exercise Price
			(In years)
$ 2.04 – $ 3.42		389,744		9.28		39,744	$	2.50
$ 3.45 – $ 3.45		1,733,092		6.94		1,232,118	$	3.45
$ 3.61 – $ 5.12		841,830		4.24		758,579	$	4.08
$ 5.18 – $ 5.30		279,767		2.96		279,767	$	5.19
$ 5.35 – $ 5.35		1,138,866		7.93		558,866	$	5.35
$ 5.42 – $ 5.66		70,875		6.24		35,458	$	5.56
$ 5.70 – $5.70		1,144,500		8.93		286,125	$	5.70
$ 5.90 – $6.82		1,044,230		6.62		634,965	$	6.59
$ 6.88 – $13.98		1,398,286		5.56		1,325,178	$	12.03
$14.27 – $14.62		305,000		5.92		305,000	$	14.28

		8,346,190		6.78		5,455,800	$	7.00

During 2011, the Company issued 550,000 RSUs under the Company's 2004 Stock Incentive Plan at a grant date fair value of $2.55. These awards will vest as follows: one-third of the award will vest on the second anniversary of the award date and two-thirds of the award will vest on the third anniversary of the award date. During 2010, the Company issued 10,000 RSUs under the Company's 2004 Stock Incentive Plan at a grant date fair value of $6.05. These RSUs will vest in equal monthly installments over a two-year service period. Fair value of restricted stock units are estimated based upon the closing sales price of the Company's common stock on the grant date. As of December 31, 2011, 551,667 RSUs were outstanding under the Company's stock option plans.

As of December 31, 2011, 2,824,067 shares were reserved for future awards under the Company's stock incentive plans. As of December 31, 2011, there are 2,036,330 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2010 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for shareholders' equity, comprised of portions attributable to the parent entity and noncontrolling interest, if any, including other comprehensive income (as applicable). Including, but not limited to: (1) balances of common stock, preferred stock, additional paid-in capital, other capital and retained earnings; (2) accumulated balance for each classification of other comprehensive income and total amount of comprehensive income; (3) amount and nature of changes in separate accounts, including the number of shares authorized and outstanding, number of shares issued upon exercise and conversion, and for other comprehensive income, the adjustments for reclassifications to net income; (4) rights and privileges of each class of stock authorized; (5) basis of treasury stock, if other than cost, and amounts paid and accounting treatment for treasury stock purchased significantly in excess of market; (6) dividends paid or payable per share and in the aggregate for each class of stock for each period presented; (7) dividend restrictions and accumulated preferred dividends in arrears (in aggregate and per share amount); (8) retained earnings appropriations or restrictions, such as dividend restrictions; (9) impact of change in accounting principle, initial adoption of new accounting principle and correction of an error in previously issued financial statements; (10) shares held in trust for Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP); (11) deferred compensation related to issuance of capital stock; (12) note received for issuance of stock; (13) unamortized discount on shares; (14) description, terms, and number of warrants or rights outstanding; (15) shares under subscription and subscription receivables, effective date of new retained earnings after quasi-reorganization and deficit eliminated by quasi-reorganization and, for a period of at least ten years after the effective date, the point in time from which the new retained dates; and (16) retroactive effective of subsequent change in capital structure.

+ References

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Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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+ Details

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

NOTE 9 – INCOME TAXES

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets are as follows (in thousands):


	December 31,
	2011			2010
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	67,395		$	56,254
Research and development tax credit carryforwards		6,844			4,689
Capitalized research		117			259
Stock-based compensation		7,355			831
Other		1,125			1,066

		82,836			63,099
Valuation allowance		(82,836	)		(63,099	)

Net deferred tax assets	$	—		$	—

Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon future earnings, if any, the timing and amount of which are uncertain. Accordingly, the net deferred tax assets have been fully offset by a valuation allowance. The valuation allowance increased by $19.7 million, $7.4 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, Sangamo had net operating loss carryforwards for federal and state income tax purposes of approximately $170.4 million and $162.1 million, respectively. If not utilized, the net federal and state operating loss carryforwards will begin to expire in 2012. The Company also has federal and state research tax credit carryforwards of $5.5 million and $5.4 million, respectively. The federal research credits will begin to expire in 2018 while the state research credits have no expiration date. Utilization of the Company's net operating loss carryforwards and research tax credit carryforwards may be subject to substantial annual limitations due to the ownership change limitations provided by the Internal Revenue Code and similar state provisions. The annual limitation could result in the expiration of the net operating loss carryforwards and research tax credit carryforwards before use.

The Company files U.S and state income tax returns with varying statutes of limitations. The tax years from 2000 forward remain open to examination due to the carryover of net operating losses or tax credits. We also file various foreign income tax returns with varying statutes of limitations, and the tax years from 2005 and thereafter remain open to examination.

The Company's practice is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. As of December 31 2011, the Company had no accrued interest and/or penalties. The unrecognized tax benefits may change during the next year for items that arise in the ordinary course of business. In the event that any unrecognized tax benefits are recognized, the effective tax rate will not be affected.

The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company's unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands):


	December 31,
	2011		2010		2009
Beginning balance	$	1,896	$	1,643	$	1,282
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		589		253		361
Additions for tax positions of prior years		265		—		—
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		—		—		—

Ending Balance	$	2,750	$	1,896	$	1,643

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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+ Details

Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
Subsequent Event	Dec. 31, 2011
Subsequent Event [Abstract]
Subsequent Event	NOTE 12 – SUBSEQUENT EVENT On January 31, 2012, The Company entered into a collaboration and license agreement (the Agreement) with Shire, pursuant to which the Company and Shire will collaborate to research, develop and commercialize human therapeutics and diagnostics for monogenic diseases based on Sangamo's ZFP technology. Under the Agreement, the Company and Shire may develop potential human therapeutic or diagnostic products for seven gene targets. The initial four gene targets are blood clotting Factors VII, VIII, IX and X, and products developed for such initial gene targets would be used for treating or diagnosing hemophilia. Shire has the right, subject to certain limitations, to designate three additional gene targets. Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company granted Shire an exclusive, world-wide, royalty-bearing license, with the right to grant sublicenses, to use Sangamo's ZFP technology for the purpose of developing and commercializing human therapeutic and diagnostic products for the gene targets. The initial research term of the Agreement is six years and is subject to extensions upon mutual agreement and under other specified circumstances. The Company is responsible for all research activities through the submission of an Investigative New Drug Application (IND) or European Clinical Trial Application (CTA), while Shire is responsible for clinical development and commercialization of products generated from the research program from and after the acceptance of an IND or CTA for the product. Shire will reimburse Sangamo for its internal and external research program-related costs. Under the Agreement, the Company received an upfront license fee of $13.0 million. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement with Shire, future expenses related to research activities related to the collaboration will be reimbursed by Shire, including employee and external research costs. In addition, for each gene target, Sangamo is eligible to receive milestone payments upon the achievement of specified research, regulatory, clinical development, commercialization and sales milestones. The total amount of potential milestone payments for each of the seven gene targets, assuming the achievement of all specified milestones in the Agreement, is $213.5 million. The milestone payments for each gene target through the acceptance of an IND or CTA submission total $8.5 million. Sangamo will also receive royalty payments that are a tiered double-digit percentage of net sales of products developed under the collaboration. The Agreement may be terminated by (i) Sangamo or Shire, in whole or in part, for the uncured material breach of the other party, (ii) Sangamo or Shire for the bankruptcy or other insolvency proceeding of the other party and (iii) Shire, in its entirety, beginning 24 months after the effective date of the Agreement upon 90 days advance written notice. In addition, Shire may terminate the Agreement with respect to an individual gene target at any time, and under certain circumstances may designate a replacement gene target for a terminated gene target

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	80,000,000	80,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	52,554,795	45,377,739
Common stock, shares outstanding	52,554,795	45,377,739