Epileptic Encephalopathy

Kv7 Activation.
Our Approach to Epileptic Encephalopathy

In 10%

of patients with epileptic encephalopathy, the cause is a rare mutation in the KCNQ2 gene, causing dysfunction of a key cell membrane channel called Kv7.2 in nerve cells.

The mutation causes Kv7.2 membrane channels to stop working, like brakes stuck in the closed position. Potassium molecules (K+) can’t flow through the channel.

With potassium current blocked, children may experience frequent seizures and profound developmental delays

Knopp’s Kv7 platform has discovered modulators that release the brakes and restore potassium current in brain cells.

Experimental medicine studies and laboratory evidence suggests that restoring the function of the Kv7.2 protein reduces deficiencies caused by KCNQ2 mutations, creating hope that Kv7 modulators may help control seizures and improve or normalize brain development.