B&A Oncomedical SAS has synthesized solute carrier family 12 member 2 (SLC12A2; NKCC1) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of cancer, schizophrenia, autistic spectrum disorders, fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, Parkinson’s disease and temporal lobe epilepsy, among others.
Saniona AB has initiated preclinical development of SAN-2355, a potential best-in-class and new-generation Kv7.2/Kv7.3 activator for the treatment of focal onset seizures.
Epitel Inc. received U.S. FDA clearances for two epilepsy-focused technologies that simplify detection and analysis of seizures in patients with suspected epilepsy. The Remi remote electroencephalogram monitoring system is a wearable device that allows patients to continue with their daily activities for extended periods without the restrictions of wires, while still capturing intermittent seizures. The Remi Vigilenz artificial intelligence system uses machine learning to identify and note seizure events in the Remi EEG records.
Jiangsu Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd. and Shanghai Hansoh Biomedical Co. Ltd. have described potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily KQT member 2/3 (KCNQ2/3) activators potentially useful for the treatment of epilepsy and depression.
Updated results from Stoke Therapeutics Inc.’s studies of antisense oligonucleotide STK-001 showed a reduced convulsion seizure frequency in those ages 2 to 18 with Dravet syndrome. The new data, which also showed improved cognition and behavior in participants, substantially boosted the company’s stock value and caused analysts to applaud.
Despite numerous marketed anti-seizure medications in the U.S., patients with epilepsy continue to experience breakthrough seizures and tolerability issues compounded with drug interactions and side effects, leaving room for companies like Praxis Precision Medicines Inc. to fill treatment gaps. The Boston-based company presented phase IIa proof-of-concept data March 26 showing that in an evaluation of photo paroxysmal response, its once-daily oral small-molecule treatment, PRAX-628, resulted in a complete response in three epilepsy patients receiving 45 mg of the drug and four patients receiving 15 mg for a combined complete response rate of 88%.
Researchers from Texas A&M University System have detailed the development and characterization of a novel pediatric rat model of organophosphate (OP)-induced status epilepticus (SE).
The Kv1.1 potassium channel regulates neuronal excitability both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and its dysfunction is associated with epilepsy, among others.
Medtronic plc received the greenlight from the U.S. FDA for its latest deep brain stimulation system, the Percept RC. The rechargeable neurostimulator includes the company’s sensing technology which captures data from brain signals and allows for more personalized therapy.
Boston-based Praxis Precision Medicines Inc.’s shares rose nearly 25% on Jan. 8 after it announced a pipeline update and licensing deal for its tremor drug, ulixacaltamide (PRAX-944), with Shanghai’s Tenacia Biotechnology Co. Ltd.