SAN2668 has demonstrated unique selective pharmacology, robust efficacy, and a differentiated profile in preclinical models, supporting its potential to address the significant unmet needs of children with difficult-to-treat epilepsy syndromes.

In preclinical epilepsy models, SAN2668 showed strong efficacy combined with improved tolerability and reduced tolerance-induction compared to benzodiazepines, which are frequently used as anti-seizure medications in paediatric epilepsies such as Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs). Backed by strong pharmacology and validated biomarkers, SAN2668 is positioned to advance efficiently toward early proof-of-concept.

“SAN2668 exemplifies our focus on translating deep ion channel expertise into transformative medicines for patients with devastating rare epilepsies. This program reflects Saniona’s strategy to advance high-value, first-in-class assets with strong potential for patients,” said Karin Sandager Nielsen, CSO of Saniona.

“With SAN2668, we have the potential to overcome key challenges such as sedation, cognitive impairment, and tolerance-induction, which limit the use of widely prescribed benzodiazepines like clobazam in DEEs,” said Pierandrea Muglia, CMO of Saniona. “Our goal is to bring forward a treatment option that is both effective and better tolerated for children and their families. Together with SAN2219 for epilepsy and SAN2465 for major depressive disorder, we are now progressing three internal programs towards Phase 2 proof-of-concept studies.”

Saniona has initiated pre-clinical development with the aim to initiate Phase 1 clinical studies towards the end of 2026.

More about pediatric epilepsy syndromes and DEEs
Epilepsy is diagnosed in about 1% of children, making it the most common chronic neurological condition in childhood. Approximately one-third of young epilepsy patients suffer from difficult-to-treat epileptic syndromes, many of which are classified as developmental epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). In children with DEEs, seizures derail normal cognitive and developmental trajectories, and a broad range of symptoms impair quality of life for both patients and families. Most available therapies are used off-label and are not specifically designed to address the underlying pathophysiology of these disorders.

SAN2668 is designed to directly target disease mechanisms in specific paediatric epilepsy syndromes, with the potential to become a differentiated treatment that addresses this major unmet medical need.