QAQ (dichloride)

QAQ dichloride, a photoswitchable voltage-gated Na_v and K_v channels blocker, blocks channels in its trans form (of the azobenzene photoswitch), but not in its cis form. QAQ dichloride is membrane-impermeant and only infiltrates pain-sensing neurons that express endogenous import channels. QAQ dichloride acts as a light-sensitive analgesic and can be used for studying of signaling mechanisms in acute and chronic pain^[1][2]. IC50 & Target: Target: voltage-gated Na_v and K_v channels In Vitro: QAQ dichloride (100 μM) does not cross the membrane and can be injected into cells through a micropipette to photosensitize a single cell and afford subcellular control of action potential propagation. It blocks Shaker-IR current in the?trans?configuration and unblocks it in the?cis?configuration^[1].
QAQ dichloride can be used to develop red-shifted derivatives of QAQ, powerful doubly charged photochromic blockers.These derivatives allow for remote control of K_v and Na_v channel conductance with light and offer the opportunity to silence neuronal activity reversibly^[2].