Biophysical and Pharmacological Characterization of KV7.4 Channels Using Automated Patch Clamp

The KV7 family of voltage-gated potassium channels plays critical roles in cellular excitability and signal regulation. Among them, KV7.4 channels are specifically
expressed in the inner ear and are crucial for auditory function. Dysfunction or modulation of these channels has been linked to epilepsy and age-related hearing loss. Modulating KV7.4 channels provides therapeutic opportunities, with activators shown to stabilize electrical activity and protect hearing. Using the Sophion QPatch automated patch clamp (APC) platform, we developed a robust and reproducible assay for KV7.4 biophysical characterization and pharmacological testing. This work highlights the platform’s ability to support high-quality, high-throughput compound screening.