Developed in the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology laboratories, a natural, liter-extract based ointment is transforming the veterinary treatment of melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—in horses and pets. This innovation is expected to have an international impact.
The innovative treatment was developed by academics Dr. Leonel Rojo and Dr. Claudio Acuña. Beginning in 2026, Kawell—a company dedicated to equine and pet wellness with operations in Chile and the United States—will be responsible for the international marketing and distribution of the product.
The technology transfer process was actively promoted by the APTA Hub and received funding support from the University of Santiago, Chile, and the National Research and Development Agency (ANID). Furthermore, Kawell will contribute a significant investment of US$750,000 to support crucial steps, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) registration process, commercial validation, and marketing.
The official launch of K-EXT took place on Thursday, October 9, at the Casa de la Cultura in Ñuñoa. Varinka Farren, executive director of Hub APTA, celebrated the product, stating, “This is a disruptive product, a great achievement for Chilean science, and recognition for the researchers, the university, the company, and, of course, the government for investing,” while anticipating significant expansion in the US market. Cathy Halaszi, CEO of Kawell USA, highlighted the emotional impact, adding, “Having an over-the-counter product that treats melanoma in animals is incredible; it will change the lives of many people and animals, which are already part of our families.”
Science with Purpose and Public Engagement
Dr. Bernardo Morales, Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, stated that this innovation embodies the very spirit of the University: science with purpose, innovation, and social commitment. He emphasized the faculty’s mission: “We conduct cutting-edge science to contribute to the country and the world. With everything we do in our laboratories, we are contributing to society.”
Dr. Morales also issued a call to action for new generations of researchers to strengthen ties with the productive environment. He urged, “Our students must take on the task of strengthening ties with companies, doing science in industries, and solving the problems that affect them.”
The ceremony was also attended by the Undersecretary of Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation, Cristián Cuevas, and the Director of the National Research and Development Agency, Alejandra Pizarro.
Regarding the development of K-EXT, Cuevas described it as a "success story." He elaborated, saying, “Years of research that are finally reaching the market, and what's more, with research from one of our state universities.”
The Undersecretary also highlighted the crucial value of collaboration among government, academia, and industry. “When science, the market, and the private sector come together,” he explained, “we enable the science generated in laboratories to impact the quality of life of society.”
The naturally sourced ointment will be manufactured in California by Westwood Laboratories. Initially, the product will be marketed as a cosmetic product while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) completes its official approval process.
"With the science produced at the University, we have created a market-ready product. That is what society, and especially our entrepreneurs, have to believe: we have to build that bridge of trust," emphasized Dr. Morales.
During the launch event, Dr. Leonel Rojo was also presented with the special “Technology Transfer Facilitator” award. This recognition honors his outstanding career developing science-intensive technologies that have successfully reached the market.