Kv7 ion channels, also known as KCNQ channels, play crucial roles in regulating neuronal excitability, smooth muscle tone, and cardiac action potential. Dysregulation of the Kv7.4 channels is linked to hearing loss, hypertension, and epilepsy, making them important targets in understanding and treating these conditions.

In this recent application report, we describe a high success rate Kv7.4 assay on our QPatch automated patch clamp platform. The Kv7.4 recordings show typical biophysics (IV-curve) and pharmacology (reference activators: flupirtine, ICA 069673 and retigabine; reference inhibitions: linopirdine, XE 991 & ML 252), providing a robust, consistent assay tool to investigate their critical roles in human physiology and pathophysiology (e.g. age-related hearing loss, epilepsy).