Our Research
Advancing Ion Channels Research for a Better Tomorrow.
Ion Channels: The Foundation of Our Research
Ion channels are specialized proteins located within the membranes of nerve cells (neurons), playing crucial roles in controlling the flow of ions such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and chloride. Potassium channels, in particular, are essential for regulating neuronal excitability, shaping action potentials, and maintaining the balance of electrical signaling in the brain. Dysfunction of these channels has been implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, ADHD, and schizophrenia. Current treatments often rely on drugs that broadly target potassium channels across multiple tissues, resulting in non-specific modulation and severe side effects for patients. At NeuroImpact Therapeutics, we are pioneering the development of highly precise, tissue-specific ion channel modulators. By selectively targeting these critical channels, our innovative approach aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy, significantly reduce side effects, and greatly improve patient quality of life.
KCNQ Potassium Channels: Our Primary Focus
With an emphasis on the KCNQ family of potassium channels, known for their pivotal roles in neuronal stability and excitability, our research leverages recent discoveries that reveal unique structural and functional aspects of these channels. Unlike conventional therapies, our novel approach employs cutting-edge structural biology, state-of-the-art computational modeling, and precision-binding approaches to achieve highly selective modulation of specific KCNQ subtypes. This targeted methodology holds significant promise for addressing unmet clinical needs, offering safer, more effective treatment options tailored to specific neurological and psychiatric conditions.
