September 29, 2009 (FinancialWire) — Icagen, Inc. (NASDAQ: ICGN) announced the initiation of a proof-of-mechanism study of ICA-105665 for the treatment of pain. ICA-105665 is a novel, orally available opener of subtypes of KCNQ channels, which have been validated by both genetic and physiologic evidence as playing an important role in certain conditions characterized by abnormal neuroexcitability, such as seizures, and potentially also chronic pain disorders.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study will employ a cross-over design in order to assess the ability of ICA-105665 to decrease the sensation of pain in response to the injection of a small amount of capsaicin under the skin and to a simulated sunburn. Approximately twenty-four healthy volunteers are expected to be enrolled in the study, which will be conducted at a single clinical research site in the United Kingdom. Initial results are expected during the first half of 2010.

“We are pleased to announce the initiation of this proof-of-mechanism study of ICA-105665 in pain,” noted Seth V. Hetherington, M.D., SVP of Clinical Development and Regulatory Affairs of Icagen. “ICA-105665 has demonstrated activity in several preclinical pain models. Additionally, KCNQ channels are known to play an important role in regulating the resting membrane potential of neurons involved in pain pathways, and thereby have the potential to influence the transmission of pain signals. We look forward to conducting this focused, cost-effective study to begin to understand the potential utility of ICA-105665 in the treatment of pain.”

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