The APAC Precision Oncology Conference 2025, held in Hong Kong on November 1, marked a significant advancement in cancer care, emphasizing the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) and multi-omics. With over 150 oncologists, molecular researchers, and AI scientists in attendance, the conference underscored that these technologies are now pivotal in enhancing early detection and personalizing treatment strategies across the Asia-Pacific region.
Co-organized by the Hong Kong Precision Oncology Society and various academic and health institutions, including The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Artificial Intelligence Association of Hong Kong, the event showcased clinically validated technologies already in widespread use. This gathering highlighted a new era of scalable, AI-powered precision oncology, aligning with Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
Importance of AI and Multi-Omics in Cancer Care
Multi-omics, which integrates various biological data layers—such as DNA fragments, methylation patterns, and genetic mutations—provides a comprehensive understanding of cancer cells. When combined with AI, these insights facilitate rapid and accurate analyses, empowering clinicians to detect cancer earlier and tailor personalized treatments effectively.
During the conference, Dr. Le Son Tran, Principal Investigator at Gene Solutions, elaborated on the next-generation Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) blood test, known as SPOT-MAS. “Our AI models were trained on a large multi-omics dataset and validated in large-scale studies to detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) signals. This enables the test to screen for up to 75 cancer types and subtypes with 78% sensitivity and 99% specificity—all from a single, affordable blood draw,” he stated. This capability represents a significant leap in cancer screening methodologies.
In addition, Prof. Zhang Wei Xiong from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University discussed the potential of non-canonical circular RNAs as new RNA biomarkers, further enhancing early cancer detection. Dr. Brendan Chia Seng Hup, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist at Raffles Medical Group, emphasized the affordability of Multi-Cancer Early Detection tests, which allows for broader adoption without sacrificing accuracy.
Advancements in Personalized Treatment
The complexity of tumor genomic changes necessitates comprehensive insights for tailoring personalized treatment strategies. Subsequent conference sessions focused on multi-omics’ role in comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) and transcriptomic profiling (CGTP). These sessions highlighted how deep-learning models and multidisciplinary Molecular Tumor Boards (MTBs) can translate complex genomic findings into actionable treatment plans.
Dr. Joseph Siu-Kie Au, President of the Hong Kong Precision Oncology Society, remarked that “AI will serve as the orchestrator, fusing multi-omics, clinical history, and imaging into actionable insights.” Prof. Aya Helali from Queen Mary Hospital reinforced the importance of comprehensive genomic profiling, stating, “Molecular Tumor Boards help us interpret complex genetic results and craft individualized treatment plans.”
Continuous monitoring of cancer through ctDNA is also gaining attention. Dr. Terence Aik Huang Tan, Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist at Raffles Medical Group, discussed clinical guidelines regarding ctDNA monitoring for molecular residual disease (MRD). “The data is strong. The real question now is where and how to use it in practice,” he noted. Interactive case studies during his session revealed a consensus among participants on the necessity of ctDNA-MRD monitoring as part of shared decision-making.
Dr. Ye Gang from Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital likened ctDNA monitoring to an iceberg, indicating its capacity to reveal hidden aspects of cancer progression. He asserted that MRD-guided care could significantly improve patient outcomes, calling for more real-world data to support this approach.
Gene Solutions introduced platforms such as K-TRACK and K-4CARE, which integrate genomic and transcriptomic profiling with ctDNA-based MRD monitoring. Dr. Nguyen Duy Sinh, Oncology Medical Director at Gene Solutions, explained that these platforms offer unique benefits: “Integrating both genomic and transcriptomic data helps clinicians explore greater potential for identifying suitable treatments.”
The conference concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the integration of AI and multi-omics in cancer care, emphasizing collaboration across various sectors. Prof. Cai Jing from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University stated, “AI will fundamentally change cancer care—shifting from reactive to proactive.” Dr. Joseph Siu-Kie Au highlighted the need for an ecosystem across Asia-Pacific to accelerate AI model training and accessibility in advanced cancer management.
Dr. Lawrence Luk Lung from the Artificial Intelligence Association of Hong Kong summarized the sentiment of the conference, stating, “Collaboration is key—bringing together medical experts, AI specialists, and regulators to make real progress.” By merging AI and multi-omics, healthcare systems stand to enhance early diagnosis, optimize treatment protocols, and ultimately improve survival rates, making precision oncology a reality for more patients.
For more detailed insights and highlights from the APAC Precision Oncology Conference 2025, visit the official site.
