The NeuroKCNQpathies consortium is made up of 8 independent research groups from across Europe each with an interest in a distinct aspect of KCNQ Channels. However, the overlap in the interests of each group permits us to establish a direct link from the molecular and structural biology of these channels through to their pharmacology.

The very nature of the consortium reflects the multidisciplinary approach that will be taken to address all aspects of these channels, from the fundamental structural and cellular changes produced by the genetic changes in KCNQ channels, to the design of drugs that might help in redressing or alleviating the problems that are generated.

It would be nearsighted to consider that benefit of our efforts will only be seen in the advance in our understanding of the function and dysfunction of these channels. We also hope to advance efforts directed at designing possible therapeutic approaches to benefit those suffering from such conditions. Furthermore, our efforts should enhance the availability of diagnostic and preventative tools.

Finally, we believe that the results generated in this project will not be restricted in their application to monogenic neurological KCNQ disorders alone. It is clear that they may have a bearing in far more extended areas.