Evidence Grade C — Moderate human evidence. 23 published studies, 14 human. 4 registered clinical trials.
Medically reviewed by a licensed medical professional
ARA-290 (cibinetide) is a synthetic peptide designed to promote tissue repair without stimulating red blood cell production — separating the protective effects of erythropoietin from its blood-thickening risks. It has been studied in Phase II trials for nerve damage caused by sarcoidosis and diabetes, and received FDA Fast Track designation for sarcoidosis neuropathy.
ARA-290 is also known by these brand and alternate names:
23 published studies: 14 human, 6 animal, 7 in-vitro, 3 reviews
ARA-290 (cibinetide) has no marketing authorisation. Phase II trials in sarcoidosis neuropathy showed improvements in corneal nerve fibre density, and a Phase II trial in diabetic neuropathy reported improved metabolic parameters and pain scores. The FDA granted Fast Track designation for sarcoidosis neuropathy.
No Phase III trials have been completed. The compound represents an investigational approach to tissue repair that is distinct from existing erythropoietin-based therapies, but its clinical development remains at an early stage.
Research suggests ARA-290 activates a specific receptor complex (the innate repair receptor) that is distinct from the classical erythropoietin receptor used in red blood cell production. This receptor is proposed to mediate tissue protection and repair without affecting blood cell counts. The compound is derived from erythropoietin's structure but engineered to avoid erythropoietic activity. These mechanisms are based on preclinical and early clinical data.
Research suggests Phase II trials showed improvements in corneal nerve fibre density (a measure of nerve repair) in sarcoidosis patients and improved metabolic parameters and pain scores in diabetic neuropathy. The concept of an innate repair receptor distinct from the red blood cell receptor is scientifically interesting, though debated. No Phase III trials have been completed. The compound is developed by a small biotech company, and the uncertain commercial path is a practical limitation. Good tolerability has been demonstrated, with no stimulation of red blood cell production confirmed.
PeptideTrace tracks 4 registered clinical trials for ARA-290 sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov.
The Use of ARA290 for the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Oedema
Study of Efficacy of ARA 290 on Corneal Nerve Fiber Density and Neuropathic Symptoms of Subjects With Sarcoidosis
ARA290 in T2D (Effects of ARA 290, an Erythropoietin Analogue) in Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes)
Cognitive and Neural Effects of ARA290
ARA-290 (cibinetide) is a synthetic 11-amino-acid linear peptide (pyroGlu-Glu-Arg-Leu-Glu-Arg-Phe-Leu-Glu-Ala-Leu-NH2), MW ~1,419 Da. Selectively activates innate repair receptor (IRR), heterodimer of EPOR and betacR/CD131, without classical EPOR erythropoiesis. Derived from EPO helix B. SC 4 mg daily. Half-life ~10-30 minutes. Developed by Araim Pharmaceuticals.
Research suggests selective IRR activation (EPOR/betacR heterodimer) on damaged tissues, neurons, immune cells — not erythroid progenitors. Triggers JAK2/STAT5 and PI3K/AKT: cell survival, reduced apoptosis, NF-kappaB inhibition, M1-to-M2 macrophage polarization, tissue repair. Restores corneal nerve fiber density in diabetic neuropathy models. No thrombotic/tumor risks of EPO.
No marketing authorization. Phase II sarcoidosis neuropathy (N=22 crossover): corneal nerve fiber density +0.31 vs. -0.15 fibers/mm2 (P=0.02). Phase II diabetic neuropathy (N=48): improved metabolic parameters and pain scores. FDA Fast Track for sarcoidosis neuropathy. No Phase III completed.
The information on this page is provided for educational and research reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health.
