C3001a is a selective activator for TREK, against other two-pore domain K+(K2P) channels. C3001a binds to the cryptic binding site formed by P1 and TM4 in TREK-1. C3001a targets TREK channels in the peripheral nervous system to reduce the excitability of nociceptive neurons. In neuropathic pain, C3001a alleviated spontaneous pain and cold hyperalgesia. In a mouse model of acute pancreatitis, C3001a alleviated mechanical allodynia and inflammation. C3001a represents a lead compound which could advance the rational design of peripherally acting analgesics targeting K2P channels without opioid-like adverse effects.
