Life Sciences Hub Wales
Life Sciences Hub Wales has launched a series of digital case studies spotlighting cancer innovations happening in Wales. Featuring projects from QuicDNA and CanSense, the series demonstrates a commitment to advancing cancer care through innovative technologies and approaches according to the organisation.
Improving cancer outcomes in Wales is a priority, according to Life Sciences Hub Wales, who is working with health, social care, academia and industry to accelerate the development of pioneering cancer care solutions. This video series highlights the remarkable work of QuicDNA and CanSense, focusing on advancements in early detection and targeted treatments. The organisation says these innovations have the potential to save lives, improve patient outcomes, and reduce strain on healthcare systems.
One of the projects focused on is QuicDNA. This project involves cross-sector partners and funders to ensure the widespread reach and impact of liquid biopsy technology. A liquid biopsy is a simple and non-invasive alternative to surgical tumour biopsies done through a blood test or can be used to complement tumour biopsy to shorten the time to treatment. The video also features insights from Craig Maxwell, discussing the impact of this project, and the importance of ongoing fundraising efforts.
“I think Craig has been absolutely quite unique in this. He’s taken the opportunity, albeit with an advanced diagnosis of cancer, to say what can he do to improve both the system and improve outcomes for patients coming after him. Which is quite inspirational for the rest of us. He’s inspiring us to work more effectively across Wales,” said Professor Tom Crosby, Cancer Clinical Director for Wales.
The other project highlighted in the series is CanSense, a med-tech startup focused on developing a blood-based assay for the non-invasive diagnosis of bowel cancer using AI-driven models. Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, ranks as the third most common cancer globally, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer diagnoses and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
“Patients understand the CanSense blood test: it's simple, acceptable and strongly preferred over unnecessary colonoscopies. The ability of the test to detect the earliest signs of cancer is incredibly exciting. What CanSense is doing is really changing the landscape of how we detect cancer for good. It’s a really exciting place to be at the moment," said Professor Dean Harris, Clinical Directory of CanSense.
Cari-Anne Quinn, CEO, Life Sciences Hub Wales said: "Cancer care in Wales is advancing, but challenges remain. By showcasing innovations like QuicDNA and CanSense, we aim to inspire and show how innovative technologies can transform cancer detection and treatment. Partnerships across health, social care, and industry are vital. We foster collaboration to accelerate the deployment of innovative cancer care solutions.”
Read more: Life Sciences Hub Wales highlights outcomes from five projects
