Kiora Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: KPRX) today reported that its novel ion channel modulator, KIO-300, demonstrated significant suppression of 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, the company’s lead candidate currently in a Phase 2 clinical trial for vision restoration in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. The new data indicate that KIO-300 may have therapeutic potential beyond ophthalmology, specifically in epilepsy. According to the company, the results showed a marked reduction in epileptiform activity, which is the abnormal electrical activity in the brain characteristic of seizures.
“These preclinical data are encouraging and suggest that our ion channel modulator platform may have broad applicability in neurological disorders,” said a spokesperson for Kiora Pharmaceuticals. “We are excited to explore the potential of KIO-300 in epilepsy, a condition that affects millions worldwide.”
The implications of this announcement are significant for both the epilepsy community and the field of ion channel modulation. Temporal lobe epilepsy is one of the most common forms of epilepsy, often resistant to current treatments. KIO-300’s mechanism of action as an ion channel modulator offers a novel approach that could provide new options for patients who do not respond to existing therapies.
For Kiora, this represents a potential expansion of its pipeline beyond retinal diseases. The company is primarily focused on developing advanced therapies for retinal conditions, with KIO-301 targeting retinitis pigmentosa, choroideremia, and Stargardt disease. KIO-104, another candidate, is being developed for macular edema due to retinal inflammation. The success of KIO-300 in epilepsy could open up a new therapeutic area for the company, diversifying its portfolio and addressing a larger market.
Investors and industry observers will be watching closely as Kiora advances KIO-300 toward clinical trials. The company plans to continue preclinical development and evaluate next steps, including potential regulatory filings. The data presented at the conference adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the versatility of ion channel modulators in treating neurological disorders.
Kiora Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biotechnology company. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.kiorapharma.com.
