ARA-290 (cibinetide) is a peptide engineered from the structure of erythropoietin (EPO) that selectively activates the Innate Repair Receptor (IRR) without stimulating erythropoiesis. It was developed to harness EPO's tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory properties while avoiding the risks of increased red blood cell production. It has shown promise in Phase 2 clinical trials for neuropathic pain, diabetic complications, and tissue repair.
Mechanism of Action
Selectively binds to the Innate Repair Receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and the common beta receptor (βc/CD131). This activates anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and tissue-protective signaling pathways without triggering erythropoiesis. Promotes small nerve fiber repair, reduces neuroinflammation, and improves metabolic parameters including glucose control.
Benefits
Improved corneal nerve fiber density and reduced neuropathic pain in sarcoidosis patients — Phase 2 clinical trial[1][3]
Improved metabolic control and reduced neuropathic symptoms in type 2 diabetes — randomized trial[2]
Demonstrated tissue-protective effects lasting beyond the treatment period
Investigated for diabetic macular edema — Phase 2
Not medical advice - research-reported information only
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
ARA-290 (Cibinetide) - Dosing in Published Research
Reported routes: Subcutaneous injection
In Phase 2 clinical trials, ARA-290 was administered at 4 mg subcutaneously daily for 28 days. Dosing was once daily. Peptide must be reconstituted from lyophilized powder. Optimal treatment duration and long-term maintenance dosing have not been established beyond 28-day protocols.
The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.
Side Effects
Well-tolerated in Phase 2 trials — no serious adverse events attributed to drug[1][2]
No increase in hemoglobin/hematocrit — non-erythropoietic by design
First clinical demonstration that ARA-290 can reverse small nerve fiber damage in sarcoidosis, with sustained benefit after treatment
References
1.Cibinetide Improves Corneal Nerve Fiber Abundance in Patients With Sarcoidosis-Associated Small Nerve Fiber Loss and Neuropathic Pain.. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci, 2017. "Phase 2 trial: cibinetide significantly increased corneal nerve fiber area and reduced neuropathic pain scores in sarcoidosis patients" [PMID: 28475703]
2.ARA 290, a nonerythropoietic peptide engineered from erythropoietin, improves metabolic control and neuropathic symptoms in patients with type 2 diabetes.. Mol Med, 2015. "Randomized trial showing ARA-290 improved HbA1c, lipid profiles, and neuropathic pain scores in T2DM patients" [PMID: 25387363]
3.ARA 290 improves symptoms in patients with sarcoidosis-associated small nerve fiber loss and increases corneal nerve fiber density.. Mol Med, 2013. "First clinical demonstration that ARA-290 can reverse small nerve fiber damage in sarcoidosis, with sustained benefit after treatment" [PMID: 24136731]
Recommended Resources
The Peptide Protocols Handbook
Evidence-based reference guide covering mechanisms, research, and clinical applications.
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ARA-290 (Cibinetide) FAQ
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.
No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.