ARA-290 (Cibinetide)

What Is ARA-290 (Cibinetide)?

ARA-290 (cibinetide) is an 11-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from the structure of erythropoietin (EPO). However, unlike EPO, ARA-290 does not bind the classical erythropoietin receptor or stimulate red blood cell production. Instead, it activates the Innate Repair Receptor (IRR) — a heterodimeric receptor complex of EPO receptor and CD131 that mediates tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory effects.

The discovery of the IRR explained a longstanding puzzle: EPO had demonstrated tissue-protective effects (neuroprotection, cardioprotection) that couldn't be explained by red blood cell stimulation. ARA-290 was designed to selectively activate the protective pathway without the hematopoietic effects (and associated risks like polycythemia and thrombosis) of EPO.

ARA-290 has been studied in clinical trials for diabetic neuropathy (small fiber neuropathy) and sarcoidosis — conditions where the Innate Repair Receptor pathway may be therapeutically relevant.

What The Research Says

Phase 2 clinical trials in small fiber neuropathy showed ARA-290 improved corneal nerve fiber density (a biomarker for small fiber recovery) and reduced neuropathic pain. In sarcoidosis, ARA-290 improved corneal nerve morphology and quality of life measures.

Preclinical data demonstrates ARA-290 protects cardiac tissue from ischemia, reduces neuroinflammation, and promotes wound healing in diabetic models. The tissue-protective effects are mediated through anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory signaling via the IRR.

📚 Key Reference: PMID: 26088424 (ARA-290 neuropathy), PMID: 23932849 (tissue repair)

Common Uses

• Diabetic neuropathy (clinical trials)
• Sarcoidosis (clinical trials)
• Tissue protection and repair (research)
• Neuroprotection (research)
• Wound healing in diabetics (research)

Important Safety Information

Clinical trial data shows good tolerability. Injection site reactions. Does NOT increase red blood cells or hematocrit (unlike EPO), eliminating polycythemia/thrombosis risk. Full safety profile pending larger trials. Consult your provider.

Questions To Ask Your Provider

1. What neuropathy or tissue repair application is being targeted?
2. How does this differ from EPO?
3. Are there clinical trials I could participate in?

Regulatory Status

NOT FDA-approved. In Phase 2 clinical trials. Orphan Drug designation for sarcoidosis in some jurisdictions.