Pharmacogenetics of KCNQ channel activation in 2 potassium channelopathy mouse models of epilepsy

Objectives Anti-seizure drugs are the leading therapeutic choice for treatment of epilepsy, but their efficacy is limited by pharmacoresistance and the occurrence of unwanted side effects. Here, we examined the therapeutic efficacy of KCNQ channel activation by retigabine in preventing seizures and neurocardiac dysfunction in two potassium channelopathy mouse models of epilepsy with differing severity that have been associated with increased risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP): the Kcna1−/− model of severe epilepsy and the Kcnq1A340E/A340E model of mild epilepsy.