Development of a Kv3 Positive Modulator for the treatment of Schizophrenia

A new drug aims to treat the debilitating cognitive and social symptoms of schizophrenia by targeting a specific potassium channel in the brain, called Kv3. Current antipsychotic drugs primarily address hallucinations and delusions, but do little for the cognitive problems—such as poor memory and difficulty concentrating—and negative symptoms—such as social withdrawal and lack of motivation—that make daily life and relationships so difficult for people with schizophrenia. This leaves a major gap in treatment. The consortium is developing a first-in-class molecule that modulates the Kv3 channel, which is linked to the brain’s fast-spiking neurons and the emerging understanding of the disorder’s pathology. If successful, this drug could offer significant improvement over existing medicines, with a lower burden of side effects. For patients, that could mean a better ability to hold a job, maintain relationships, and achieve a higher quality of life. The project is a drug development effort, not fundamental science, and is backed by three leading UK academic groups alongside the company Autifony.