Dr. Chen Zhu – Hematology & Leukemia at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai | CMCS

About Dr. Chen Zhu (陈竺)

Dr. Chen Zhu (陈竺) is an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the French Academy of Sciences, Chief Physician, and Professor in the Department of Hematology at Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine — one of China's most prestigious academic medical centers and the birthplace of China's modern hematology. One of the world's most distinguished hematologists and biomedical scientists, Dr. Chen is internationally celebrated for his landmark contributions to the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) — a once-fatal blood cancer that is now curable in over 90% of patients, largely due to the all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plus arsenic trioxide (ATO) combination therapy pioneered at Ruijin Hospital. This therapeutic breakthrough — described by the international medical community as one of the most successful examples of translational medicine in oncology history — has saved hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide.

Beyond APL, Dr. Chen's research has made fundamental contributions to the molecular biology of leukemia, the mechanisms of differentiation therapy, and the genomic landscape of hematological malignancies. As a clinician, he leads one of China's most advanced hematology programs, with expertise spanning the full spectrum of blood cancers and hematological disorders. For international patients, Dr. Chen offers access to the world's most experienced center for APL treatment and one of China's premier hematology programs — supported end-to-end by CMCS Shanghai's medical concierge services.

Academic Distinction & Leadership

• Academician, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) — the highest academic honor in Chinese science
• Foreign Associate, French Academy of Sciences — one of the few Chinese scientists elected to this distinction
• Chief Physician & Professor, Department of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Former Director, Shanghai Institute of Hematology (SIH) — China's premier hematology research institute
• Former Minister of Health, People's Republic of China (2007–2013)
• Vice-Chairman, Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China
• Member, WHO Expert Advisory Panel on Health Research
• Co-recipient, Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award (2016) — often called the "American Nobel Prize" — for the development of APL therapy
• Recipient, National Natural Science Award (First Prize, China) and multiple international scientific prizes
• Author of over 300 peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals including Science, Nature Medicine, Nature Genetics, Blood, and New England Journal of Medicine

Specializations & Expertise

Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL) — World Authority

• APL diagnosis — PML-RARα fusion gene detection, FISH, RT-PCR, flow cytometry immunophenotyping
• ATRA + arsenic trioxide (ATO) combination therapy — the Ruijin Protocol, achieving complete remission in >95% and cure in >90% of patients
• Low-risk APL — ATRA + ATO without chemotherapy (chemotherapy-free regimen)
• High-risk APL — ATRA + ATO + anthracycline-based chemotherapy
• Relapsed and refractory APL — salvage therapy, autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• APL differentiation syndrome — recognition and management
• Molecular remission monitoring — PCR-based MRD assessment for treatment response and relapse detection
• APL in special populations — elderly patients, pregnancy-associated APL

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

• AML diagnosis — WHO 2022 classification, cytogenetics, molecular profiling (FLT3, NPM1, IDH1/2, CEBPA, TP53, RUNX1)
• Intensive induction chemotherapy — 7+3 regimen and variants
• Targeted therapy — FLT3 inhibitors (midostaurin, gilteritinib), IDH1/2 inhibitors (ivosidenib, enasidenib), venetoclax-based regimens
• Allogeneic stem cell transplantation — patient selection, donor matching, conditioning regimen
• Relapsed and refractory AML — salvage chemotherapy, clinical trial access
• AML in elderly patients — low-intensity regimens (venetoclax + azacitidine)

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

• ALL diagnosis — immunophenotyping (B-ALL, T-ALL), cytogenetics, molecular profiling (BCR-ABL1, Ph-like ALL)
• Intensive chemotherapy protocols — pediatric-inspired regimens for adult ALL
• Targeted therapy — tyrosine kinase inhibitors for Ph+ ALL (imatinib, dasatinib, ponatinib)
• Blinatumomab and inotuzumab ozogamicin for relapsed/refractory B-ALL
• CAR-T cell therapy for relapsed/refractory ALL — coordination and referral
• Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for high-risk and relapsed ALL

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)

• MDS diagnosis — WHO 2022 classification, IPSS-R and IPSS-M risk stratification
• Low-risk MDS — supportive care, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, lenalidomide (del5q), luspatercept
• High-risk MDS — hypomethylating agents (azacitidine, decitabine), allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• MDS with excess blasts — venetoclax combinations, clinical trial access

Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN)

• Polycythemia vera (PV) — phlebotomy, hydroxyurea, ruxolitinib
• Essential thrombocythemia (ET) — risk stratification and cytoreductive therapy
• Myelofibrosis — JAK inhibitors (ruxolitinib, fedratinib, pacritinib), allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) — TKI therapy (imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib, asciminib), treatment-free remission

Lymphoma & Multiple Myeloma

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) — R-CHOP and variants, CAR-T referral for relapsed disease
• Follicular lymphoma and indolent B-cell lymphomas
• Hodgkin lymphoma — ABVD, brentuximab vedotin
• Multiple myeloma — triplet induction therapy, autologous stem cell transplantation, maintenance therapy

Benign Hematological Disorders

• Aplastic anemia — immunosuppressive therapy (ATG + cyclosporine), eltrombopag, allogeneic stem cell transplantation
• Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) — corticosteroids, TPO receptor agonists, rituximab, splenectomy
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA)
• Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) — eculizumab, ravulizumab
• Hereditary hemolytic anemias — thalassemia, sickle cell disease, hereditary spherocytosis
• Coagulation disorders — hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, acquired coagulopathies

Clinical Excellence

• APL — The Ruijin Protocol: Ruijin Hospital is the birthplace of the ATRA + arsenic trioxide combination therapy for APL — a treatment that transformed a once-fatal leukemia into one of the most curable cancers in medicine. Dr. Chen Zhu was a central figure in the development and global dissemination of this therapy, and Ruijin Hospital remains the world's most experienced center for APL treatment. For international patients with APL, there is no more authoritative institution in the world.
• Lasker Award Laureate: The 2016 Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award — one of the most prestigious prizes in medicine — was awarded to Dr. Chen Zhu and colleagues for the development of APL therapy. This recognition places Dr. Chen among the most distinguished clinical scientists of his generation, globally.
• Translational Medicine Pioneer: Dr. Chen's career exemplifies the translation of basic science discoveries into life-saving clinical therapies. His work on the molecular mechanisms of ATRA and arsenic trioxide in APL established the scientific foundation for differentiation therapy as a paradigm in oncology.
• Comprehensive Hematology Expertise: Beyond APL, Dr. Chen's department manages the full spectrum of hematological malignancies and benign blood disorders, with access to the latest targeted therapies, CAR-T cell therapy coordination, and allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
• International Scientific Standing: Dual academician status (CAS and French Academy of Sciences), Lasker Award laureate, and publications in Science, Nature Medicine, and NEJM place Dr. Chen among a handful of Chinese physician-scientists with truly global scientific recognition.

Research & Academic Contributions

Dr. Chen Zhu is one of the most internationally recognized biomedical scientists in China, with over 300 publications in leading journals including Science, Nature Medicine, Nature Genetics, Blood, New England Journal of Medicine, and Journal of Clinical Oncology. Key research contributions include:

• APL therapy — molecular mechanisms of ATRA and arsenic trioxide, development of the chemotherapy-free ATRA + ATO regimen, and long-term outcome data from the Ruijin APL cohort
• Differentiation therapy in oncology — establishing the paradigm of inducing cancer cell differentiation rather than cytotoxic killing
• Genomic landscape of AML and MDS — whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing studies identifying novel driver mutations and therapeutic targets
• Leukemia stem cells — biology, therapeutic targeting, and resistance mechanisms
• Global health and cancer epidemiology — research on cancer burden, health system strengthening, and access to essential medicines

Hospital Affiliation

Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (上海交通大学医学院附属瑞金医院)
197 Ruijin Er Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200025

Ruijin Hospital's Department of Hematology — home to the Shanghai Institute of Hematology (SIH) — is one of China's most prestigious and internationally recognized hematology centers, offering:

• Shanghai Institute of Hematology (SIH) — China's premier hematology research institute, integrated with clinical care
• Dedicated APL treatment program — the world's most experienced center for ATRA + ATO therapy
• Comprehensive hematological malignancy program: AML, ALL, MDS, MPN, lymphoma, myeloma
• Allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplantation program
• CAR-T cell therapy coordination and referral
• Advanced molecular diagnostics: cytogenetics, FISH, NGS-based comprehensive genomic profiling, MRD monitoring by PCR and flow cytometry
• Biologic and targeted therapy infusion center
• Clinical trial access — investigational therapies for relapsed/refractory hematological malignancies
• International patient services with English-speaking coordinators

Patient Care Philosophy

• Cure as the Goal: For APL and other highly curable hematological malignancies, Dr. Chen's team pursues cure — not just remission — as the primary treatment goal. The Ruijin APL protocol achieves cure in over 90% of patients.
• Precision Hematology: Comprehensive molecular profiling — cytogenetics, FISH, NGS-based genomic profiling, and MRD monitoring — is integrated into every treatment decision, enabling targeted therapy selection and early detection of relapse.
• Translational Research Integration: The Shanghai Institute of Hematology's integration of basic research and clinical care means that patients at Ruijin Hospital benefit from the latest scientific discoveries, including access to investigational therapies through clinical trials.
• Compassionate Care: Hematological malignancies are life-altering diagnoses. Dr. Chen and his team are committed to providing not only the most advanced medical treatment but also compassionate, patient-centered care.

Why Choose Dr. Chen Zhu?

• World Authority on APL: For patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia, Ruijin Hospital under Dr. Chen Zhu's leadership is the most experienced and authoritative center in the world — the institution that developed the curative therapy now used globally.
• Lasker Award & Dual Academician: Recognition by the Lasker Award and dual academician status (CAS + French Academy of Sciences) places Dr. Chen among the most distinguished physician-scientists in the world.
• Comprehensive Hematology Program: Full spectrum of hematological malignancies and benign blood disorders managed within a single institution, with access to the latest targeted therapies, stem cell transplantation, and CAR-T coordination.
• Clinical Trial Access: Access to investigational therapies for relapsed/refractory hematological malignancies through the Shanghai Institute of Hematology.
• International Patient Friendly: Experienced with international patients and supported by CMCS's end-to-end concierge services.
• Cost-Effective Excellence: World-class hematology care in Shanghai at a fraction of the cost of equivalent centers in the US, UK, or Europe.

International Patient Services

China Medical Concierge - Shanghai (CMCS) provides comprehensive support for international patients seeking hematology consultation with Dr. Chen Zhu at Ruijin Hospital.

Pre-Consultation Support

• Medical Record Review: Review of all available blood counts, bone marrow biopsy and aspirate reports, cytogenetics, molecular profiling (FISH, PCR, NGS), imaging (CT, PET-CT), and prior hematology treatment records before your appointment
• Virtual Pre-Consultation: Video consultation to discuss your hematological condition and determine the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment pathway
• Appointment Coordination: Direct booking with Dr. Chen Zhu's clinic at Ruijin Hospital
• Visa Assistance: Medical visa invitation letters and guidance
• Accommodation: Hotel recommendations near Ruijin Hospital in Huangpu District, Shanghai

During Your Visit

• Professional Medical Interpretation: Experienced English-Chinese medical interpreters for all consultations and investigations
• Hospital Navigation: Assistance with registration, payment, and coordination of same-day investigations including bone marrow procedures
• 24/7 Emergency Support: Round-the-clock assistance throughout your stay in Shanghai

Post-Consultation Care

• Medical Report Translation: Complete translation of consultation notes, bone marrow reports, molecular profiling results, and treatment plans
• Follow-Up Coordination: Coordination of follow-up appointments, chemotherapy or targeted therapy scheduling, and MRD monitoring
• Telemedicine Follow-Up: Virtual consultations for ongoing disease monitoring and treatment management after returning home
• Home Physician Liaison: Communication of findings and treatment plan to your home country hematologist or oncologist

Treatment Protocols & Patient Journey

Step 1: Pre-Consultation Review

CMCS Shanghai coordinates a review of all available hematological investigations — complete blood count and differential, bone marrow aspirate and biopsy reports, cytogenetics (karyotype, FISH), molecular profiling (PCR for fusion genes, NGS-based comprehensive genomic profiling), flow cytometry immunophenotyping, and prior treatment records — before your first appointment with Dr. Chen.

Step 2: In-Person Consultation & Clinical Assessment

Your consultation begins with a thorough clinical history and physical examination. Dr. Chen will review all available investigations in detail and may recommend same-day investigations — including repeat blood counts, bone marrow aspirate, or additional molecular testing — where indicated. CMCS provides full medical interpretation throughout.

Step 3: Diagnostic Workup (Where Indicated)

Depending on your condition, additional investigations may be recommended, including bone marrow aspirate and trephine biopsy, comprehensive cytogenetics and FISH panel, NGS-based comprehensive genomic profiling, MRD assessment by PCR or multiparameter flow cytometry, PET-CT for lymphoma staging, or HLA typing for stem cell transplantation planning. CMCS coordinates all bookings and accompanies you through each investigation.

Step 4: Multidisciplinary Tumor Board Review

Complex hematological malignancy cases are reviewed at Ruijin Hospital's hematology MDT meeting, attended by hematologists, pathologists, cytogeneticists, molecular biologists, radiation oncologists, and stem cell transplant specialists. This ensures every patient receives a comprehensive, evidence-based treatment recommendation integrating the latest molecular profiling data and clinical trial options.

Step 5: Treatment Initiation

Treatment is initiated at Ruijin Hospital under Dr. Chen's supervision. For APL patients, the Ruijin ATRA + ATO protocol is commenced immediately upon diagnosis confirmation. For other hematological malignancies, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or biologic therapy is initiated according to the individualized treatment plan. CMCS provides on-site support throughout inpatient admissions and outpatient infusion visits.

Step 6: MRD Monitoring & Long-Term Follow-Up

Molecular remission monitoring (MRD assessment by PCR or flow cytometry) is performed at regular intervals to assess treatment response and detect early relapse. CMCS coordinates remote follow-up consultations with Dr. Chen for international patients between visits to Shanghai, and liaises with your home country hematologist to ensure continuity of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and why is Ruijin Hospital the best place to treat it?

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia characterized by the PML-RARα fusion gene. It was once one of the most fatal leukemias due to life-threatening bleeding complications. Ruijin Hospital's hematology team — led by Dr. Chen Zhu and colleagues — pioneered the use of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) to treat APL, transforming it into one of the most curable cancers in medicine, with cure rates exceeding 90%. Ruijin Hospital has treated more APL patients with this protocol than any other institution in the world, and its outcomes data represent the global benchmark for APL treatment.

Can Dr. Chen provide a second opinion on a leukemia diagnosis or treatment plan?

Yes. Second opinions are a common reason international patients consult Dr. Chen, particularly for APL (to confirm diagnosis and ensure the optimal ATRA + ATO protocol is being used), AML with complex cytogenetics or molecular mutations, relapsed or refractory leukemia, and MDS with high-risk features. CMCS can arrange a pre-consultation review of your bone marrow reports, cytogenetics, and molecular profiling before your visit.

What is the Lasker Award and why is it significant?

The Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award is one of the most prestigious prizes in medicine — often called the "American Nobel Prize" because many Lasker laureates subsequently receive the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Dr. Chen Zhu received the 2016 Lasker Award for his contributions to the development of APL therapy using arsenic trioxide and ATRA. This recognition places Dr. Chen among the most distinguished clinical scientists in the world and reflects the global impact of the work done at Ruijin Hospital.

Is CAR-T cell therapy available at Ruijin Hospital?

Ruijin Hospital has access to CAR-T cell therapy for eligible patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell ALL and large B-cell lymphoma, through coordination with approved CAR-T therapy centers in Shanghai. Dr. Chen's team can assess your eligibility for CAR-T therapy and coordinate referral and treatment. CMCS manages all logistics for international patients undergoing CAR-T therapy in Shanghai.

What languages does Dr. Chen's team communicate in?

Dr. Chen's clinical team communicates primarily in Mandarin Chinese. CMCS Shanghai provides full English medical interpretation for all consultations and investigations.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you or a family member is seeking expert hematology evaluation, leukemia treatment, a second opinion on a blood cancer diagnosis, or access to the world's most experienced APL treatment center in Shanghai, CMCS Shanghai can arrange a consultation with Dr. Chen Zhu at Ruijin Hospital.

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Disclaimer: This profile is intended for educational and informational purposes only. CMCS Shanghai is a medical concierge service and does not provide direct medical care. All clinical decisions are made by licensed physicians at accredited hospitals.