ARA-290
ARA-290 (Cibinetide)
Tissue-Protective EPO Analog for Healing and Neuropathic Pain
The information on this page is compiled from peer-reviewed research and is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation. Peptides discussed here may not be approved for human use in your jurisdiction. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any health protocol.
What is ARA-290?
ARA-290, also known by its investigational name cibinetide, is a synthetic 11-amino acid peptide derived from the tissue-protective domain of erythropoietin (EPO). Unlike native EPO, ARA-290 was deliberately engineered to strip out erythropoietic activity entirely, leaving only the tissue-protective signaling intact. This means it does not stimulate red blood cell production and carries none of the cardiovascular risks associated with elevated hematocrit.
The peptide's mechanism centers on the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heteromeric complex formed by the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and the beta-common receptor (betacR). This receptor complex is selectively upregulated in injured or inflamed tissue and is largely absent in healthy, uninjured cells. When ARA-290 binds to the IRR, it initiates anti-apoptotic signaling, suppresses local pro-inflammatory cytokine cascades, and inhibits death signals that would otherwise lead to cell loss.
Clinical research has evaluated ARA-290 most extensively in sarcoidosis-associated small fiber neuropathy (SFN). A randomized, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that 4 mg subcutaneous daily injections over 28 days increased corneal nerve fiber density and significantly reduced neuropathic pain scores [3]. A parallel metabolic study found improvements in insulin sensitivity and HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes. The FDA granted ARA-290 Orphan Drug status for neuropathic pain in sarcoidosis.
Preclinical research spans models of myocardial infarction, diabetic retinopathy, traumatic brain injury, burns, and shock-induced multi-organ failure. Human pharmacokinetic data shows a peak plasma concentration of roughly 3 ng/mL following a 4 mg subcutaneous dose, with a terminal half-life of approximately 20 minutes.
Research Supply
Source high-purity ARA-290 for your research
Dosage Guide
Route: Subcutaneous injection, once daily
Dosing Schedule
| Period | Dose |
|---|---|
| Clinical trial standard (sarcoidosis) | 4 mg once daily for 28 days |
| Research extension | 4 mg once daily for up to 12 weeks |
Reconstitution
Injection Volumes
| Dose | Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 4 mg | 1.0 mL | Full dose |
| 2 mg | 0.5 mL | Half dose |
| 1 mg | 0.25 mL | Quarter dose |
Administration Tips
- Inject subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
- Use an insulin syringe (29-31 gauge)
- Rotate injection sites
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated and use within 28 days
- Sterile water may be used for single-use reconstitution instead of bacteriostatic water
Risks & Side Effects
Commonly Reported
Serious Risks
Hypersensitivity reactions
Rare but possible allergic responses including rash or urticaria; discontinue and seek care if systemic symptoms appear.
Unknown long-term effects
ARA-290 lacks long-duration human safety data beyond 12 weeks; prolonged use carries unquantified risk.
Off-target receptor activation
At high concentrations, partial binding to EPOR cannot be fully excluded, though no erythropoietic effects were observed in clinical trials at 4 mg/day.
Contraindications
- Active malignancy (EPO-family peptides may stimulate tumor microenvironments)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (no safety data)
- Known hypersensitivity to erythropoietin analogs
- Concurrent use of anticoagulants (theoretical interaction with tissue-protective vascular pathways)
Related Peptides
Experts Covering ARA-290
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. ARA-290 has not been approved by the FDA for any medical condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy. Individual results may vary. Peptides Institute is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of information provided on this site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ARA-290 and how does it work?
What conditions is ARA-290 being studied for?
What is the standard dosage for ARA-290?
What are the side effects of ARA-290?
Is ARA-290 FDA approved?
How does ARA-290 differ from erythropoietin (EPO)?
References
- Brines M, Patel NS, Villa P, et al.. Nonerythropoietic, tissue-protective peptides derived from the tertiary structure of erythropoietin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008. PMID 18676614
- Brines M, Dunne AN, van Brederode JF, et al.. ARA 290, a nonerythropoietic peptide engineered from erythropoietin, improves metabolic control and neuropathic symptoms in patients with type 2 diabetes. Mol Med. 2015. PMID 25387363
- Dahan A, Dunne A, Swartjes M, et al.. ARA 290 improves symptoms in patients with sarcoidosis-associated small nerve fiber loss and increases corneal nerve fiber density. Mol Med. 2013. PMID 24136731
Regulatory & Official Sources
- Cibinetide (ARA-290) — Wikipedia