



































Genomic research perspectives in Kazakhstan


 

 

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of its D-Scribe Digital Publishing Program and is cosponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Press. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Genomic research perspectives in 

Kazakhstan 

 

 

Ainur Akilzhanova 

 

Center for Life Sciences, Nazarbayev 

University, Astana, Kazakhstan

 

Vol. 2, Suppl. (2013)   |   ISSN 2166-7403 (online)    

DOI 10.5195/cajgh.2013.101   |   http://cajgh.pitt.edu 

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AKILZHANOVA 

 

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 United States License. 

 

This journal is published by the University Library System of the University of Pittsburgh as part  

of its D-Scribe Digital Publishing Program and is cosponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Press. 

 

Central Asian Journal of Global Health 

Volume 2, Suppl. (2013)  |  ISSN 2166-7403 (online)  |  DOI 10.5195/cajgh.2013.101  |  http://cajgh.pitt.edu 

  

 

Abstract 

Introduction: Technological advancements rapidly propel the field of genome research. Advances in genetics and genomics 

such as the sequence of the human genome, the human haplotype map, open access databases, cheaper genotyping and chemical 

genomics, have transformed basic and translational biomedical research. Several projects in the field of genomic and 

personalized medicine have been conducted at the Center for Life Sciences in Nazarbayev University. The prioritized areas of 

research include: genomics of multifactorial diseases, cancer genomics, bioinformatics, genetics of infectious diseases and 

population genomics. At present, DNA-based risk assessment for common complex diseases, application of molecular signatures 

for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, genome-guided therapy, and dose selection of therapeutic drugs are the important issues in 

personalized medicine. 

 

Results: To further develop genomic and biomedical projects at Center for Life Sciences, the development of bioinformatics 

research and infrastructure and the establishment of new collaborations in the field are essential. 

 

Widespread use of genetic tools will allow the identification of diseases before the onset of clinical symptoms, the 

individualization of drug treatment, and could induce individual behavioral changes on the basis of calculated disease risk. 

However, many challenges remain for the successful translation of genomic knowledge and technologies into health advances, 

such as medicines and diagnostics. 

 

It is important to integrate research and education in the fields of genomics, personalized medicine, and bioinformatics, which 

will be possible with opening of the new Medical Faculty at Nazarbayev University. People in practice and training need to be 

educated about the key concepts of genomics and engaged so they can effectively apply their knowledge in a matter that will 

bring the era of genomic medicine to patient care. This requires the development of well-equipped laboratories, bioinformatics, as 

well as qualified trained physicians and laboratory staff.   

Keywords: genomic research, biomedical science, Kazakhstan 

 

 

 

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