Kazakh scientists develop promising cancer drug

ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Two Kazakh scientists have developed a new cancer treatment drug that has shown remarkable results in laboratory trials, drawing attention from major pharmaceutical companies abroad. The breakthrough drug, named Sovetonko, is already valued at $160 million by international firm London Rate.

According to a report by media portal Adyrna, the drug was developed by researchers Kuanyshbek Sarsenbai and Zaure Dinova, and has received six international patents protected under the Berne Convention. Laboratory studies revealed that the treatment destroyed over 88% of AGS and HeLa cancer cell lines, including those related to stomach, cervical, and other adenocarcinomas.

Trials have also shown strong results in combating leukemia and Burkitt lymphoma, with some studies reporting a 100% success rate in certain models. While clinical testing and regulatory approvals remain pending, the preliminary data has sparked early interest from pharmaceutical companies in India and the United States, with negotiations reportedly underway for commercial development.

Sarsenbai revealed that the origins of the drug date back to the late 1970s, when foundational research was carried out by his great-uncle Soviet Dinov, who passed away in 2024. The drug was named Sovetonko in his memory. Sarsenbai continued the research over the past five years, ultimately completing early lab trials in 2023.

Despite the drug’s global potential, the project received no support from the Kazakh government, the scientists said. Initial funding came from a private investor, but offers to acquire or support the drug domestically have been absent so far.

As foreign pharmaceutical giants explore acquisition deals, the scientists remain hopeful that Kazakhstan will recognize and support a homegrown innovation that could play a vital role in the global fight against cancer.