“During 2024, we have successfully completed analytical development, synthesis optimization, and production of the GLP toxicology batch. We expect to complete the remaining preclinical work in 2025, enabling Saniona to file a clinical trial application around year-end 2025,” said Janus Schreiber Larsen, Chief Operating Officer at Saniona.

“SAN2355 is a key asset in our epilepsy portfolio. Kv7 activators have been clinically and commercially validated as add on treatment for focal onset epilepsy, but no products are currently available. SAN2355 stands out due to its unique selectivity profile and has the potential to become best in class, with the possibility to address the significant and sustained unmet needs of epilepsy patients,” added Thomas Feldthus, CEO of Saniona.

About Epilepsy, Kv7 Channels, and SAN2355

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide, with approximately 30% of patients not responding to existing treatments, highlighting a critical unmet need.

Kv7 channels regulate potassium ion transport in neurons, preventing uncontrolled nerve impulses. Among the five subtypes (Kv7.1–Kv7.5), Kv7.2/Kv7.3 is the key target for anti-epileptic treatment, while activating other subtypes can cause severe side effects.

Kv7 activation has been clinically validated in epilepsy, as seen with retigabine, a non-selective Kv7.2–Kv7.5 activator that was effective in treating focal onset epilepsy but withdrawn in 2017 due to adverse effects. XEN1101, a more potent retigabine analogue in Phase 3, remains unselective, with Phase 2 data showing urinary retention and CNS-related dropouts.

Beyond focal seizures, Kv7 activation holds promise for severe pediatric epilepsies, where Kv7.2/Kv7.3 mutations are a major cause. Retigabine was repurposed for this indication but discontinued by Xenon Pharmaceuticals in 2023, likely due to side effects.

SAN2355 is specifically designed to overcome the limitations of retigabine and XEN1101. It selectively activates Kv7.2/Kv7.3 while blocking Kv7.5 and sparing Kv7.1/Kv7.4, reducing CNS side effects and urinary retention. This differentiation is expected to provide strong seizure control with improved tolerability for both focal and generalized epilepsy as well as severe pediatric epilepsies linked to Kv7.2/Kv7.3 mutations