Many, many biotech stocks have been breaking out over the past two months.

Newlink Genetics (NASDAQ: NLNK) and Incyte Corporation (NASDAQ: INCY) both skyrocketed on October.

After that, stocks of Ariad Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: ARIA) and Celldex Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CLDX) both had nice, quick pops last month.

Then there was Kite Pharma’s (NASDAQ: KITE) huge jump earlier this month.

So, might Sangamo Biosciences next?

Sangamo focuses on the research, development, and commercialization of zinc finger DNA-binding proteins for gene regulation and gene modification.

The company has collaboration and license agreements with Shire International GmbH and Biogen Idec Inc.

Review the 1-year chart of Sangamo with the added notations:

Sangamo can certainly go on some wild rides.

The stock popped big back in December and January, but also fell off a cliff in March and April.

Sangamo had a nice rally in June, but then gave it all back in July. So, the stock’s ability to move is not in question.

All those moves being said, imagine if Sangamo could break through the key resistance level of $17. Compare the similar breakouts of the stocks listed above to get an idea.

The stock closed yesterday at $14.33.

No matter what your strategy, or when you decide to enter, always remember to use protective stops and you’ll be around for the next trade. Capital preservation is always key.

Christian Tharp, CMT

@cmtstockcoach