Our science

Building on decades of research, Xenon is developing innovative therapeutic candidates designed to precisely modulate specific ion channels in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which have potential to treat a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Ion channels, such as sodium and potassium channels, mediate electrical signals throughout the body, including in the nervous system. Balance in the nervous system is maintained in part by the coordination of ion channels opening or closing in response to stimuli.

Our scientific approach is focused on opening or closing ion channels to control how neurons respond to stimuli and shift the balance of electrical signaling in the nervous system. This approach has the potential to be beneficial in disorders where neurons are more or less active than they should be, such as epilepsy, or where modulating electrical signaling may disrupt an undesired physical response, such as acute or chronic pain.

By leveraging our expertise in ion channel biology, as well as novel chemistries that enable potent, selective ion channel targeting, we are pursuing a variety of innovative therapeutic approaches for patients in need.