Molecular data
| Molecular formula | C55H89N19O20 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 1257.3 Da |
| Sequence | pGlu-Glu-Gln-Leu-Glu-Arg-Ala-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ser |
| Sequence length | 11 residues |
| CAS / identifier | 1208243-50-8 |
| Physical form | Lyophilized powder |
| Available sizes | 10mg |
How it works
IRR (EPOR/CD131) Agonism
ARA-290 (cibinetide) is an 11-amino-acid peptide engineered from the helix-B surface of erythropoietin (EPO). It selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) — a heterocomplex of the EPO receptor and the β-common receptor (CD131) — the tissue-protective arm of EPO signaling, without engaging the classical receptor that drives red-cell production.
- Selective IRR (EPOR/βcR) agonism
- Non-erythropoietic — no effect on hematocrit
- Mimics EPO's helix-B tissue-protective domain
Resolution of Inflammation
Through the innate repair receptor, ARA-290 dampens pro-inflammatory signaling and promotes its resolution, reducing collateral tissue damage from the injury and immune response — a mechanism characterized in both preclinical and clinical research.
- Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling
- Shifts macrophages toward a reparative phenotype
- Suppresses spinal microglial activation in pain models
Cytoprotective & Neuroregenerative Signaling
IRR activation engages JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/Akt, and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2-family pathways, supporting cell survival and small-nerve-fiber regeneration despite the peptide's very short plasma half-life.
- Activates JAK2/STAT3 & PI3K/Akt survival signaling
- Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family engagement
- Associated with small-fiber nerve regrowth in research
What the research shows
Sarcoidosis Small-Fiber Neuropathy
In a randomized, double-blind pilot study, ARA 290 improved small-fiber neuropathy symptom scores and physical functioning in sarcoidosis patients, with no safety concerns.
Heij et al. 2012
Corneal & Skin Nerve Fiber Regrowth
28 days of ARA 290 significantly improved neuropathic symptoms and initiated regrowth of small nerve fibers, including increased corneal nerve fiber density.
Dahan et al. 2013
Long-Term Allodynia Relief
In rodent models, ARA 290 dose-dependently reduced mechanical and cold allodynia for up to 20 weeks, coupled with suppression of the spinal microglia response.
Swartjes et al. 2014
EPO-Derived Cytoprotection
ARA 290 was engineered from EPO's tertiary structure to deliver tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory effects via the innate repair receptor, without stimulating erythropoiesis.
Brines et al. 2008
Specification
| Chemical Name | ARA-290 (Cibinetide) |
|---|---|
| Sequence | pGlu-Glu-Gln-Leu-Glu-Arg-Ala-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ser (11 aa) |
| Molecular Weight | 1,257.3 Da |
| Molecular Formula | C₅₅H₈₉N₁₉O₂₀ |
| CAS Number | 1208243-50-8 |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Testing | Third-party HPLC, Mass Spec, Endotoxin |
| Storage (lyophilized) | -20°C for long-term stability |
| Storage (reconstituted) | 2–8°C, use within 14 days |
| Solubility | Sterile or bacteriostatic water |
| COA | Included with every order |
Frequently asked questions
What is ARA-290 and where does it come from?
ARA-290 (cibinetide) is a synthetic 11-amino-acid peptide engineered from the helix-B surface domain of erythropoietin (EPO). It was designed to activate EPO's tissue-protective, anti-inflammatory signaling through the innate repair receptor — without the red-blood-cell-stimulating activity of native EPO.
What is the innate repair receptor (IRR)?
The IRR is a heterocomplex of the EPO receptor and the β-common receptor (CD131). It mediates EPO's protective and regenerative effects in tissue, distinct from the classical homodimeric EPO receptor that controls erythropoiesis. ARA-290 selectively activates this repair receptor.
Does ARA-290 raise red blood cell counts like EPO?
No. ARA-290 is non-erythropoietic — it does not engage the receptor pathway that drives red-cell production, so it does not raise hematocrit. That separation of tissue protection from erythropoiesis is the central rationale behind its design.
What has clinical research shown?
Phase 2 studies in sarcoidosis-associated small-fiber neuropathy reported improved neuropathic symptom scores, increased corneal nerve fiber density, and regrowth of small nerve fibers, with a favorable safety profile. Preclinical models also show long-term reduction of neuropathic pain behaviors.
Is this product intended for human use?
No. Research-grade ARA-290 sold here is strictly for in vitro laboratory research and analytical applications. It is not a drug and is not intended for human or veterinary use, consumption, or any clinical application.
Literature
- PubMed Nonerythropoietic, tissue-protective peptides derived from the tertiary structure of erythropoietin
- PubMed Safety and efficacy of ARA 290 in sarcoidosis patients with symptoms of small fiber neuropathy: a randomized, double-blind pilot study
- PubMed ARA 290 improves symptoms in patients with sarcoidosis-associated small nerve fiber loss and increases corneal nerve fiber density
- PubMed ARA 290, a peptide derived from the tertiary structure of erythropoietin, produces long-term relief of neuropathic pain coupled with suppression of the spinal microglia response
For laboratory research use only. Not a drug, supplement, or medical product; not for human or animal use. All findings referenced are from published preclinical/laboratory research.