Modulation of Kv7 potassium channels by a novel opener pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7(4H)-one compound QO-58

Background and Purpose Modulation of Kv7/M channel function represents a relatively new strategy to treat neuronal excitability disorders such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. We designed and synthesized a novel series of pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidin-7(4H)-one compounds, which activate Kv7 channels. Here, we characterized the effects of the lead compound, QO-58, on Kv7 channels and investigated its mechanism of action. Experimental Approach A perforated whole-cell patch technique was used to record Kv7 currents expressed in mammalian cell lines and M-type currents from rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. The effects of QO-58 in a rat model of neuropathic pain, chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, were also examined. Key Results QO-58 increased the current amplitudes, shifted the voltage-dependent activation curve in a more negative direction and slowed the deactivation of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents. QO-58 activated Kv7.1, Kv7.2, Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/Kv7.5 channels with a more selective effect on Kv7.2 and Kv7.4, but little effect on Kv7.3. The mechanism of QO-58's activation of Kv7 channels was clearly distinct from that used by retigabine. A chain of amino acids, Val224Val225Tyr226, in Kv7.2 was important for QO-58 activation of this channel. QO-58 enhanced native neuronal M currents, resulting in depression of evoked action potentials. QO-58 also elevated the pain threshold of neuropathic pain in the sciatic nerve CCI model. Conclusions and Implications The results indicate that QO-58 is a potent modulator of Kv7 channels with a mechanism of action different from those of known Kv7 openers. Hence, QO-58 shows potential as a treatment for diseases associated with neuronal hyperexcitability.