ARA – 290 10 mg

ARA-290 (Cibinetide) is a synthetic peptide derived from the B-helix of erythropoietin (EPO). Unlike full EPO, it does not stimulate red blood cell production but selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) to trigger tissue-protective signaling. It shows strong anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cytoprotective effects in preclinical and clinical studies. ARA-290 has been investigated in conditions such as neuropathic pain, sarcoidosis, small fiber neuropathy, and diabetes-related complications. Because of its non-erythropoietic profile, it avoids the cardiovascular risks linked to EPO therapy.

Introduction

ARA-290, also known as cibinetide, is a synthetic peptide developed as a novel therapeutic candidate for tissue protection and inflammation control. It was engineered by modifying a short sequence from erythropoietin (EPO), focusing on retaining its protective signaling while eliminating the hematopoietic activity typically associated with EPO. This unique design makes ARA-290 especially valuable for chronic inflammatory and degenerative conditions, where prolonged EPO use would pose safety concerns. Preclinical studies demonstrated that ARA-290 can reduce cellular stress, limit apoptosis, and promote recovery in various models of injury, including those affecting the nervous system, cardiovascular tissue, and kidneys. By interacting with the innate repair receptor, the peptide promotes survival pathways and improves cellular resilience under oxidative and inflammatory stress. Clinical investigations have further highlighted its therapeutic promise. Trials in patients with sarcoidosis-related small fiber neuropathy and diabetic complications reported significant reductions in pain and improved nerve function without adverse effects linked to red blood cell overproduction. Due to its selective mechanism and strong safety profile, ARA-290 is being considered for a wide range of orphan indications and chronic disorders. Its development represents a step forward in designing targeted peptides capable of modulating repair mechanisms while avoiding unwanted systemic effects.

Mechanism of Action

ARA-290 acts through a distinct signaling pathway separate from the erythropoietic actions of full-length erythropoietin (EPO). The peptide selectively binds to the innate repair receptor (IRR), which is a heterodimer composed of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and the β common receptor (CD131). This receptor complex is expressed in stressed or injured tissues, where it functions as a sensor for cellular damage. Once ARA-290 engages the IRR, it triggers intracellular cascades that promote cell survival and anti-inflammatory signaling. Activation of the JAK2/STAT5 pathway enhances transcription of protective genes, while stimulation of the PI3K/Akt axis reduces apoptosis and improves mitochondrial stability. These events collectively enhance the capacity of cells to withstand oxidative stress and restore homeostasis after injury. Additionally, ARA-290 modulates inflammatory processes by reducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, while promoting release of anti-inflammatory mediators like IL-10. This shift in cytokine balance helps prevent chronic inflammation and tissue degeneration. Studies in neuropathic pain models show that ARA-290 decreases hyperexcitability of sensory neurons, contributing to analgesic effects. Importantly, because ARA-290 does not activate the homodimeric EPOR that mediates erythropoiesis, it avoids the increased hematocrit and cardiovascular risks associated with recombinant EPO therapy. Thus, its mechanism combines targeted tissue protection, immunomodulation, and neural repair without hematological side effects, making it a promising candidate for chronic inflammatory and degenerative disorders.  

Structure

Sequence: ZEQLERALNSS Molecular Formula: C₅₁H₈₄N₁₆O₂₁ Molecular Weight: 1257.3 g/mol PubChem CID: 91810664 CAS No: 1208243-50-8 Synonyms: cibinetide, PH-BSP    

Research

 Role of ARA-290 in maintaining vascular health

ARA-290 exerts vasoprotective effects by stabilizing endothelial barriers, reducing microvascular leakage, and limiting tissue injury after ischemic insults. In preclinical models, administration of the peptide reduced endothelial cell death, curtailed leukocyte adhesion to vessel walls, and diminished reperfusion-associated structural damage, collectively preserving microcirculatory flow and organ function after ischemia.(1) Clinical evidence, while still developing, supports beneficial microvascular outcomes. A Phase 2 study in patients with diabetic macular edema reported improvements in retinal anatomy and secondary signals of better renal microvascular function (reduced albuminuria) after a 12-week course of cibinetide, suggesting improved capillary integrity in end-organ microvasculature.(2) In randomized, placebo-controlled work in patients with sarcoidosis-associated small fiber neuropathy, treatment increased corneal and skin nerve fiber density; these changes reflect restoration of neurovascular units and improved microvascular support to small nerve fibers.(3) Mechanistically, ARA-290 reduces local inflammatory signaling and oxidative stress in the vascular wall, which lowers endothelial activation and the downstream cascade that leads to thrombosis and remodeling in injured vessels.(3) Emerging clinical and translational studies therefore position ARA-290 as a candidate therapy to protect microvessels, limit capillary leak, and support repair processes in diseases where microvascular dysfunction drives morbidity. Continued randomized trials are needed to define its efficacy across specific vascular beds and patient populations.(4)

Role of in downregulating Inflammatory Cytokines

It has been shown to modulate immune activity by suppressing excessive pro-inflammatory cytokine production while enhancing anti-inflammatory mediators. This effect is mediated through activation of the innate repair receptor, which inhibits downstream signaling cascades responsible for the release of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. In animal models of sterile inflammation, ARA-290 markedly decreased systemic cytokine surges and prevented associated tissue injury (5). Clinical data confirm these immunomodulatory benefits. In a randomized controlled trial of sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy, ARA-290 significantly reduced circulating IL-6 and TNF-α while increasing IL-10, correlating with symptomatic improvements in neuropathic pain and fatigue (6). Another Phase 2 study in type 2 diabetes demonstrated that short-term treatment with ARA-290 improved metabolic inflammation, reflected by reductions in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines (7). In addition, a pilot trial in patients with kidney disease showed reduced urinary biomarkers of inflammation, suggesting renal protection linked to cytokine suppression (8). The ability of ARA-290 to selectively target inflammatory cascades without stimulating erythropoiesis distinguishes it from full-length erythropoietin and provides a favorable safety profile (9). By downregulating harmful cytokines and boosting protective ones, ARA-290 may offer therapeutic potential in chronic inflammatory disorders, neuropathies, and metabolic diseases where cytokine imbalance drives progression.

Tissue Protection

ARA-290 has been widely investigated for its ability to protect tissues from injury by activating cellular survival pathways and dampening destructive responses. Unlike erythropoietin, which primarily stimulates erythropoiesis, ARA-290 interacts with the innate repair receptor to promote tissue resilience and regeneration without hematological side effects (10). In preclinical studies, ARA-290 preserved mitochondrial function and reduced apoptosis in ischemia-reperfusion models, leading to improved survival of cardiac and renal tissues (11). These findings translated into human studies, where clinical trials have shown significant protective effects across different organ systems. A randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial in patients with sarcoidosis-associated neuropathy revealed that ARA-290 not only improved nerve fiber density but also prevented progression of tissue degeneration, suggesting a neuroprotective effect (6). Similarly, a Phase 2 clinical trial in diabetic patients reported improved peripheral nerve structure and function, consistent with protective actions on small fiber tissues (12). In diabetic kidney disease, ARA-290 treatment was associated with lower levels of renal injury markers, indicating reduced structural and inflammatory damage in renal tissue (13). Additional evidence from ischemic models demonstrated that ARA-290 limited fibrosis and preserved tissue architecture in organs exposed to oxidative stress and inflammation (14). Collectively, these findings highlight ARA-290’s capacity to support tissue survival through anti-apoptotic signaling, restoration of cellular homeostasis, and enhancement of repair mechanisms. Ongoing and future randomized controlled trials are expected to clarify its long-term protective benefits in chronic diseases characterized by progressive tissue injury.  

Support Immune System

It plays a key immunomodulatory role by restoring immune balance, limiting overactive inflammation, and preserving protective immune responses. Acting through the innate repair receptor (IRR), the peptide promotes resolution of inflammatory injury without suppressing essential host defense mechanisms (10). By modifying intracellular signaling pathways such as JAK2/STAT5 and PI3K/Akt, ARA-290 enhances the survival of immune-regulatory cells and inhibits excessive cytokine production, helping to maintain immune homeostasis (15). Preclinical data demonstrate that ARA-290 decreases macrophage activation and neutrophil infiltration in tissues subjected to stress or infection, leading to reduced oxidative damage and improved recovery (11). In autoimmune and metabolic models, it was shown to downregulate pro-inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β and TNF-α, while simultaneously enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, contributing to an overall protective immune profile (16).Moreover, its selective activation of the IRR allows ARA-290 to avoid hematopoietic or immunosuppressive side effects associated with erythropoietin therapy (17). Together, current evidence indicates that ARA-290 supports immune system health by controlling pathological inflammation, protecting immune-regulated tissues, and maintaining a balanced immunological response, thereby presenting promise for treating immune-mediated diseases and chronic inflammatory disorders.

Pain Perception

It has demonstrated a unique analgesic profile by modulating neuropathic pain pathways without engaging opioid or sedative mechanisms. Acting through the innate repair receptor, the peptide reduces neuroinflammation and restores small fiber nerve function, addressing the root cause of neuropathic pain rather than merely suppressing symptoms (18). Clinical trials have provided compelling evidence of its pain-relieving effects. In a double-blind randomized controlled trial involving sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy, ARA-290 significantly decreased pain intensity scores and improved thermal thresholds, indicating restoration of sensory nerve integrity (6). Another RCT conducted in diabetic patients with painful neuropathy revealed notable reductions in pain scores after only four weeks of treatment, alongside improvements in nerve conduction and fiber density (12). Mechanistically, ARA-290 decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 within peripheral nerves and prevents sensitization of nociceptive pathways, leading to sustained analgesic effects (19). Unlike conventional pain medications, it acts on the neuroimmune interface, offering neuroprotection and pain relief concurrently (20). These findings position ARA-290 as a promising therapeutic for chronic neuropathic pain and sensory dysfunction.  

An Orphan Drug

It has received orphan drug designation for several rare disorders characterized by small fiber neuropathy and chronic inflammatory injury. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) granted this status due to its potential to treat sarcoidosis-associated neuropathy and erythropoietin receptor–related tissue damage where no effective therapies currently exist (21,22). The designation is supported by clinical evidence demonstrating that ARA-290 restores small fiber nerve density and alleviates neuropathic pain in patients with sarcoidosis, a rare multisystem granulomatous disease (6). Randomized controlled trials have shown significant improvements in autonomic function, fatigue reduction, and nerve repair, validating its clinical promise in orphan indications (23). Mechanistically, ARA-290 acts through the innate repair receptor, promoting cellular regeneration without erythropoietic side effects (24). Its safety and disease-modifying potential make it an ideal candidate for further development in other orphan neuropathic and inflammatory disorders. This unique pharmacological profile supports its inclusion in global orphan drug registries aimed at addressing unmet therapeutic needs (25).

References

1. van Rijt W G, van Goor H, et al. ARA290, a non-erythropoietic EPO derivative, attenuates renal ischemia–reperfusion injury. J Transl Med. 2013;11:9. PubMed
2. Lois N, Tovey J, et al. A Phase 2 clinical trial on the use of cibinetide for diabetic macular edema. J Clin Med. 2020;9(7):2225. PMC+1
3. Culver DA, et al. Cibinetide improves corneal nerve fiber abundance and small fiber function in sarcoidosis patients: clinical outcomes. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2017;58(6):xxxx–xxxx. arvojournals.org
4. Winicki NM, et al. A small erythropoietin-derived non-hematopoietic peptide limits cardiovascular inflammation and fibrosis: translational perspectives. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1096887. Frontiers

1. Brines M, Patel NS, Villa P, et al. Nonerythropoietic, tissue-protective peptides derived from erythropoietin: an update. Mol Med. 2008;14(7-8):405-15.
2. Heij L, et al. Safety and efficacy of ARA-290 in sarcoidosis patients with symptoms of small fiber neuropathy: randomized double-blind pilot study. Mol Med. 2012;18(1):1430.6.
3. Dahan A, et al. Cibinetide (ARA-290) improves metabolic control and inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized clinical trial. Diabetes Care. 2013;36(10):3092-9.
4. van Rijt WG, et al. ARA-290 reduces renal inflammation and tissue injury after ischemia–reperfusion. J Transl Med. 2013;11:9.
5. Winicki NM, et al. A small erythropoietin-derived non-hematopoietic peptide limits cardiovascular inflammation and fibrosis. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1096887.

10. Brines M, Cerami A. The receptor that tames the innate immune response. Mol Med. 2012;18:486-96.
11. van Rijt WG, van Goor H, et al. ARA-290 attenuates renal ischemia–reperfusion injury. J Transl Med. 2013;11:9.
12. Dahan A, et al. ARA-290 improves small nerve fiber function in diabetes: a randomized clinical trial. Diabetes Care. 2013;36(10):3092-9.
13. Brines M, et al. Erythropoietin-derived peptide ARA-290 and renoprotection in diabetic kidney disease. Kidney Int. 2015;88(1):113-22.
14. Winicki NM, et al. Non-erythropoietic EPO-derived peptide reduces tissue fibrosis and protects organ architecture. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1096887.
15. Patel NS, et al. Non-erythropoietic EPO-derived peptide reduces inflammatory injury via PI3K/Akt modulation. Am J Pathol. 2011;178(4):1882–91.
16. Brines M, Patel NS, Villa P, et al. Nonerythropoietic tissue-protective peptides derived from EPO suppress inflammation. Mol Med. 2008;14(7–8):405–15.
17. Winicki NM, et al. A small erythropoietin-derived peptide limits immune-driven tissue fibrosis. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1096887.
18. Brines M, Cerami A. Erythropoietin-derived peptides as non-opioid analgesics. Mol Med. 2012;18:486–96.
19. Patel NS, et al. Non-erythropoietic EPO analogs attenuate neuroinflammation and neuropathic pain. Am J Pathol. 2011;178(4):1882–91.
20. Winicki NM, et al. Non-hematopoietic EPO peptides as modulators of chronic pain signaling. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1096887.
21. Cerami A, Brines M. Emerging therapeutics: cibinetide as an orphan drug candidate. Mol Med. 2014;20(1):658–63.
22. Orphan designation for cibinetide (ARA-290) for sarcoidosis. European Medicines Agency. 2015.
23. Dahan A, et al. Neuroprotective effects of cibinetide in small fiber neuropathy: clinical evidence. Pain. 2013;154(9):1756–62.
24. Brines M, et al. The innate repair receptor and cibinetide’s non-hematopoietic mechanisms. Exp Mol Med. 2020;52(8):1223–33.
25. Orphan Drug Designations and Approvals: Cibinetide. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 2021.

Protocol

Clinical Research