Kiora Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: KPRX) announced today that its novel ion channel modulator, KIO-300, significantly suppressed seizure-associated electrophysiological activity in an ex vivo temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) model. The findings were presented in a poster at the Epilepsy Foundation Pipeline Conference taking place June 18-19, 2026, in Leesburg, VA.
KIO-300 is the active pharmaceutical ingredient of KIO-301, which is currently in Phase 2 clinical development for vision restoration in patients with retinitis pigmentosa, independent of gene mutation. The new data indicate that KIO-300 may have therapeutic potential beyond retinal diseases, specifically in epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
In the preclinical study, researchers applied KIO-300 to brain slices from a TLE model and measured epileptiform activity. The results showed a significant reduction in seizure-like electrical discharges, suggesting that the compound can modulate ion channels involved in neuronal excitability. The company noted that these findings support further investigation of KIO-300 as a potential treatment for epilepsy.
Kiora Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing advanced therapies for retinal disease. Its lead candidate, KIO-301, is a molecular photoswitch designed to restore vision in patients with inherited or age-related retinal degeneration. Another candidate, KIO-104, is a next-generation small-molecule inhibitor of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) being developed for macular edema due to retinal inflammation.
The expansion of KIO-300 into epilepsy represents a strategic diversification of Kiora's pipeline. The company believes that its ion channel modulator platform could address multiple indications beyond vision loss. The preclinical epilepsy data will be used to guide future development plans, including potential clinical trials.
For more information, visit Kiora Pharmaceuticals' website at www.kiorapharma.com.
