It started with a simple blood draw. For one patient, who had no symptoms at all, that single tube of blood revealed the earliest signs of a dangerous cancer. Because it was detected so early, treatment began right away, and the patient’s chances of survival skyrocketed.
This life-changing moment was made possible by a groundbreaking test developed at Geneseeq, under the leadership of Chinese-Canadian doctor, Xue Wu.
Stories like this are becoming increasingly common thanks to her relentless pursuit of earlier detection, more precise treatments, and better outcomes for people facing one of humanity’s most formidable diseases (take that, Theranos).
Front lining cancer research
Dr. Xue Wu is a global leader in precision oncology, known for combining scientific brilliance with a clear mission: To transform how cancer is detected, diagnosed, and treated.
As CEO of Geneseeq Canada and Dean of the Geneseeq Research Institute, she spearheads research that is redefining the boundaries of what’s possible in cancer care.
Her work bridges the gap between cutting-edge genomic science and real-world patient outcomes, helping thousands access earlier diagnoses and more effective, personalized treatment options.
Research & Resilience
Dr. Wu’s academic path began at Nankai University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology.
From there, she moved to Canada to pursue an MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Dalhousie University, deepening her understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern health and disease.
She later earned her PhD in Medical Biophysics at the University of Toronto, a program renowned for its integration of cutting-edge research and clinical application.
Her journey was not without its challenges. Transitioning between countries and research cultures required adaptability and perseverance.
Mastering complex technologies while navigating the competitive world of biomedical research meant long hours, rigorous problem-solving, and overcoming inevitable setbacks. Yet, each step strengthened her scientific expertise and her resolve to apply it in ways that directly benefit patients.
The genesis of Geneseeq
Armed with world-class training and a vision for transforming cancer care, Dr. Wu became a driving force behind Geneseeq, a global leader in genomic sequencing for oncology.
As CEO of Geneseeq Canada and Dean of the Geneseeq Research Institute, she leads research and product development focused on next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.
These innovations aim to detect cancer earlier, tailor treatments to individual patients, and improve survival rates.
One of Geneseeq’s most celebrated achievements under her leadership is the CanScan® multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test.
This technology uses whole-genome sequencing of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), powered by the company’s proprietary MERCURY™ platform, to detect cancer signals in the blood with remarkable accuracy.
Not only can it identify the presence of cancer, but it can also predict the tissue of origin—critical information for guiding treatment.
Transforming patient care through tech
The impact of Dr. Wu’s work reaches far beyond laboratory breakthroughs. Traditional cancer screenings often target only a handful of cancer types and can be invasive, time-consuming, and costly.
Geneseeq’s blood-based tests change that by offering a simple, single-tube blood draw capable of detecting multiple cancers at once. This makes screening more accessible, less intimidating, and potentially available to populations who have historically lacked access to advanced diagnostics.
Clinical studies have shown that Geneseeq’s methods achieve 98.1% specificity and over 93% early-stage detection rates for certain cancers—numbers that translate to fewer false positives, less unnecessary testing, and earlier interventions when treatment is most effective.
The technology also addresses cancers like pancreatic and liver, which are notoriously difficult to detect early and often fatal when diagnosed late.
Beyond detection, Geneseeq’s genomic profiling tools help oncologists choose the right treatments for the right patients.
By identifying specific genetic mutations in a tumour, doctors can prescribe targeted therapies or determine whether a patient is likely to respond to immunotherapy. This personalized approach is the essence of precision oncology, a field where Dr. Wu is making an indelible mark.
A legacy woven in real time
Dr. Xue Wu’s leadership at Geneseeq represents the fusion of scientific excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to human health.
Her work is not only changing how cancer is diagnosed and treated but also challenging the status quo in how healthcare systems think about prevention and patient care.
With every advancement, she is shaping the future of oncology. This is giving countless patients around the world a better chance at survive — and better yet, the chance to thrive.
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