AstraZeneca and Cellectricon collaborate on Dynaflow High Throughput Ion Channel Screening

AstraZeneca have expanded their collaboration with Cellectricon. AstraZeneca will install two Dynaflow high throughput ion channel screening systems.

US and WO patent update for the week ending 05/23

US and WO ion channel patents have been updated for this week at IonChannelCentral.com

US and WO patent update for the week ending 05/16

US and WO ion channel patents have been updated for this week at IonChannelCentral.com

Icagen report on Ion Channel Progress

ICA-105665 KCNQ channel opener for epilepsy – Single ascending dose Phase I trial completed; multiple ascending dose Phase I initiated
Senicapoc for Asthma – Phase I trial initiated
Na and Ca channel Pain Program – Leads identified

Phase II trials for both projects expected in the second half of 2008

Elocalcitol increases Ca2+ entry and L-type Calcium expression

Vitamin D3 analog Elocalcitol has been found to upregulate Ca2+ entry through L-type Ca2+ channels. It may have a use in the modulation of bladder contractile mechanisms.

Clevidipine to enter new Phase III trial for Acute Hypertension and Intracerebral Hemorrhage

A forthcoming Phase III trial of Clevidipine (Clevelox, Cleviprex) for Acute Hypertension and Intracerebral Hemorrhage is being carried out by The Medicines Company.