pynegabine

Pynegabine is a novel small molecule anticonvulsant under development for the treatment of epilepsy. It acts as a potassium channel opener, specifically targeting the KCNQ2/3 (Kv7.2/7.3) channels in neuronal membranes, which are important regulators of neuronal excitability. By activating these channels, pynegabine stabilizes the resting membrane potential and reduces excessive neuronal firing associated with seizures. Pynegabine is structurally and mechanistically related to retigabine (ezogabine), but has been designed to improve upon its safety and tolerability profile. The drug is being developed primarily for focal onset seizures in epilepsy.