ARA-290
WellnessAlso known as: Cibinetide, Innate Repair Receptor Agonist, non-hematopoietic EPO analog
Emerging ResearchWhat is ARA-290?
A non-hematopoietic analog of erythropoietin (EPO) engineered to activate the innate repair receptor (IRR) without stimulating red blood cell production. Designed to deliver EPO's tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory properties without cardiovascular risks of hematopoietic EPO. Investigated for diabetic neuropathy and sarcoidosis-associated neuropathy with promising Phase 2 data.
How it works
Erythropoietin is best known for stimulating red blood cells via the EpoR homodimer receptor. EPO also activates a separate heterodimeric receptor (EpoR/βcR, the "innate repair receptor") involved in tissue protection and anti-inflammatory signaling. ARA-290 is an 11-amino acid helix B surface peptide of EPO that selectively activates the IRR without activating the EpoR homodimer — achieving cytoprotective effects without erythropoiesis or thromboembolic risk. Key downstream effects: NF-κB inhibition, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β), and enhanced peripheral nerve fiber regeneration.
What marketers claim
- ▸cures all neuropathy
- ▸safe and available for everyone
- ▸equivalent to EPO without any risks
- ▸approved for peripheral neuropathy
What evidence supports
- ✓Phase 2 RCT (Brines et al., 2014): 67 sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy — significant improvement in corneal nerve fiber density, neuropathic pain, and autonomic function vs placebo
- ✓Phase 2 data in type 2 diabetes with peripheral neuropathy: improvements in intraepidermal nerve fiber density and neuropathic pain scores
- ✓clean safety profile in completed trials — no erythropoiesis, no thrombotic events
- ✓anti-inflammatory effects documented in multiple preclinical models
Research evidence
Key studies on ARA-290, summarized in plain language. This is not an exhaustive list — it highlights the most relevant findings.
ARA-290 for small fiber neuropathy in sarcoidosis: Phase 2 RCT
Finding: ARA-290 4mg SC 28 days significantly improved corneal nerve fiber density, autonomic function (QSART), and neuropathic pain vs placebo; primary endpoint met with statistical significance.
Limitation: Small Phase 2, sarcoidosis-specific neuropathy population may differ from other neuropathy types, longer-term follow-up not published.
Best for
What to expect
Realistic timeline based on available research. Individual results vary.
Week 1–4
Phase 2 trial data: improvements in autonomic function beginning within 4 weeks.
Month 2–4
Corneal nerve fiber density improvements measurable at 28 days in sarcoidosis trial; neuropathic pain scores improved over 4 weeks.
Safety notes & concerns
Full safety guide →- ⚠not FDA or EMA approved — clinical trials ongoing
- ⚠Phase 2 data promising but Phase 3 trials needed
- ⚠only available in clinical trial or experimental settings; no commercial product
- ⚠sarcoidosis is a niche indication — efficacy in common peripheral neuropathy types less established
Pairs well with
Use caution with
Frequently asked questions
Is ARA-290 related to EPO doping?
No. ARA-290 specifically does not stimulate erythropoiesis. It was engineered to avoid this entirely, targeting only the tissue-protective IRR receptor. It would have no performance-enhancing effect on oxygen transport and is not on the WADA prohibited list. The connection to EPO is purely structural and mechanistic.
Can I obtain ARA-290 outside a clinical trial?
Not legitimately. ARA-290 (Cibinetide) is a clinical-stage drug without any approved indication. It is not available as a research peptide through standard channels in a well-characterized pharmaceutical form.
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Last updated: 2026-06-10
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this site is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, peptide, or treatment protocol.