Selective Kv7.2/Kv7.3 activators
Unprecedented subtype selectivity for treatment of epilepsy
Kv7 channels are clinically validated targets for epilepsy. In 2010 GSK launched retigabine (Ezogabine, Trobalt) for treatment-resistant focal onset seizures based on convincing Phase 3 studies but was taken off the market due to severe compound specific side effect. Following the withdrawal of retigabine, this target has been subject to significant interest from the industry. Saniona has experience with this target and believes that its lead compound/series has a profile, which differentiates to competing programs in the pipeline in terms of both efficacy and side effects.
How Kv7.2/Kv7.3 activators work
The Kv7.2/Kv7.3 ion channel is a voltage-gated ion channel which is activated during periods of strong neuronal activity, where it reestablishes the membrane potential to the resting state by mediating a selective outward flux of potassium ions.
When Kv7.2/ Kv7.3 ion channel activity is facilitated by Saniona’s Kv7 lead compound for treatment of epilepsy, these channels revert the epileptic activity of neurons and prevent new attacks to occur.
Kv7.2/Kv7.3 PROGRAM STATUS
Saniona has promoted a lead compound to the candidate selection phase.