Alberta-based precision health company aims to deliver more precise testing for a leading cause of death among men while minimizing the risks of overdiagnosis.
Calgary – June 26, 2025 – Today, new investments into public-private R&D projects were announced as part of a new wave of new Genome Canada R&D investments supporting the Canadian Genomics Strategy. These investments will accelerate the commercialization and adoption of genomics-driven biotechnology, bridging the gap between research and real-world application to support the growth of Canadian innovation and its contribution to our national economy.
Genome Alberta is pleased to support Alberta-based medical device and biotechnology company, Nanostics, in delivering a smarter, more targeted approach to prostate cancer screening. Beyond the benefits to patients, this initiative is helping to position both Alberta and Canada at the forefront of biotech development, driving a broader shift towards more personalized, and data-driven medicine.
“Alberta-led biotech innovations like ClarityDX Prostate are exactly the kind of data-driven, practical solutions we need to meet rising healthcare demands while also supporting economic growth through a vibrant life sciences sector. This investment helps translate Alberta science into a better care for men across Canada.”
David Bailey, President and CEO, Genome Alberta
A Smarter Path to Prostate Cancer Detection
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer, and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death, among Canadian men. Despite its prevalence, current screening methods—most notably the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test—have been criticized for their lack of precision often leading to overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies, adding a strain on already overburdened healthcare resources and causing patients unnecessary stress.
A new made-in-Alberta diagnostic tool is bringing precision to prostate cancer screening, addressing this challenge in men’s health. Developed by Edmonton-based Nanostics, ClarityDX Prostate enhances the accuracy of prostate cancer detection by using machine learning to analyze clinical and blood-based biomarker data. ClarityDX Prostate offers a targeted, non-invasive approach that identifies aggressive cancers more reliably. Clinical validation studies show that when paired with PSA testing, ClarityDX Prostate can reduce unnecessary biopsies by up to 47 per cent while maintaining a 95 per cent sensitivity rate for high-risk cancers.
Currently available as a patient-pay test, Nanostics is building the case for national adoption, beginning with a rollout in Alberta. Backed by financial support from Genome Canada, the company is pursuing a clinical utility study and healthcare integration analysis to support its inclusion in the standard of care. The implications for Canada’s healthcare system are substantial: reduced wait times, fewer invasive procedures, and cost savings, all while improving patient outcomes. ClarityDX Prostate is not only transforming cancer diagnostics—it’s positioning Alberta & Canada as a leader in biotech innovation and personalized medicine.
Learn more about this project at genomealberta.ca
Learn more about Nanostics at nanosticsdx.com
Read the Genome Canada News Release and more about the funded projects across Canada.
About Genome Alberta
Genome Alberta is working towards a better future through genomics innovation. Our mission is to promote and support genomics solutions to create value and investment opportunities through excellent science, technology and application development, collaborations, and partnerships. We work on priority areas in health, agriculture, environment & energy, and forestry, driving growth across sectors while helping to develop Alberta’s next generation of talented innovators.
For more information on Genome Alberta, please visit genomealberta.ca.
Media inquiries:
Erin Tessier
etessier@genomealberta.ca
587-643-9973
