The Role of Radiochemistry in the Development of Nuclear Medicine on The Treatment of Cancer in Kazakhstan
Nuclear Medicine
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1071/ejmbs.v6i1.76Keywords:
Nuclear medicine, Oncology, Radionuclide therapy, Radiochemistry, Targeted therapy, TheranosticsAbstract
development of nuclear medicine for oncological therapy in Kazakhstan. Radiochemistry is a fundamental scientific discipline that underpins the synthesis, production, and quality control of radionuclide compounds used for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. Particular attention is given to key medical radionuclides such as Tc-99m, I-131, Lu-177, and Sm-153, as well as to promising isotopes applied in targeted radionuclide therapy and theranostics. Technological approaches to the development of radiopharmaceuticals are discussed, including labeling methods, quality standardization, isotope stability assurance, and their integration into clinical protocols for the treatment of various types of cancer. The article analyzes current clinical practices in Kazakhstan, including the use of PET/CT for diagnosis and monitoring therapeutic efficacy, the implementation of radionuclide therapy, and precision targeted tumor treatment methods. Significant progress is noted in the expansion of the national radiochemical base, increased availability of radiopharmaceuticals, and the integration of international safety and quality standards. At the same time, key challenges are identified, including a limited number of qualified specialists, insufficient laboratory and production infrastructure, and the need to develop regulatory frameworks and interdisciplinary collaboration among chemists, physicists, and medical professionals. Prospects for the development of nuclear medicine in Kazakhstan are associated with strengthening scientific infrastructure, expanding educational programs, introducing innovative radiochemical technologies, and integrating targeted therapy and theranostic approaches. A comprehensive strategy will enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment, and ensure alignment of national practice with international standards in the field of precision oncology.
References
BMCUDP.kz. (2024). Production of an innovative radiopharmaceutical for diagnostics of brain tumors established in Kazakhstan [online]. Available at: https://bmcudp.kz/en/about/news/13365 [Accessed 18 July 2026].
BMCUDP.kz. (2025a). The Nuclear Medicine Center of the Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan launches a unique radioisotope-based diagnostic technology for prostate cancer [online]. Available at: https://bmcudp.kz/en/about/news/13673 [Accessed 18 July 2026].
BMCUDP.kz. (2025b). Nuclear medicine: A step forward in the fight against cancer [online]. Available at: https://bmcudp.kz/en/about/news/16814 [Accessed 18 July 2026].
Cherry, S. R., Sorenson, J. A., Phelps, M. E. (2012). Physics in Nuclear Medicine (4th ed.). Elsevier/Saunders.
Jurisson, S. S., Lydon, J. D. (1999). Potential technetium small molecule radiopharmaceuticals. Chem. Rev., 99(9), 2205-2218.
Qaim, S.M. (2019). Nuclear and Radiochemistry: Fundamentals and Applications. Springer.
Sartor, O., Reid, R. H., Hoskin, P. J., Quick, D. P., Ell, P. J., Coleman, R. E., Kotler, J. A., Freeman, L. M., Olivier, P. (2004). Samarium-153-lexidronam complex for treatment of painful bone metastases in hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Urology, 63(5), 940-945.
Silberstein, E. B., Alavi, A., Balon, H. R., Clarke, S. E. M., Divgi, C., Gelfand, M. J., Goldsmith, S. J., Jadvar, H., Marcus, C. S., Martin, W. H., Parker, J. A., Royal, H. D., Sarkar, S. D., Stabin, M., Waxman, A. D. (2012). The SNMMI practice guideline for therapy of thyroid disease with 131I 3.0. J. Nucl. Med., 53(10), 1633-1651.
Silk Way TV. (2025). New cancer detection method introduced in Kazakhstan [online]. Available at: https://silkwaytv.kz/en/new-cancer-detection-method-introduced-in-kazakhstan_56837/ [Accessed 18 July 2026].
Tengrinews.kz. (2024). Nuclear medicine technologies for cancer treatment introduced in Kazakhstan [online]. Available at: https://en.tengrinews.kz/science/nuclear-medicine-technologies-for-cancer-treatment-264615/ [Accessed 18 July 2026].
Wadsak, W., Mitterhauser, M. (2010). Basics and principles of radiopharmaceuticals for PET/CT. Eur. J. Radiol., 73(3), 461-469.