Also known as: Cibinetide, ARA290, Cyclic helix B peptide
ARA-290 is a epo receptor agonist research compound (not FDA-approved for human use) studied for neuropathic pain relief. ARA-290 is a peptide modeled on erythropoietin that activates the body's tissue-repair pathway without the blood-thickening effects of EPO, studied primarily for neuropathic pain and nerve regeneration. Research dose: 4–4 mg daily x 28 days. Half-life: 2 minutes. Available from COA-verified vendors with code PEPTIDEX for up to 20% off.
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Selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and CD131 (βc receptor). Unlike full erythropoietin, ARA-290 binds only the IRR and not the
⚠️ Educational only · Not medical advice · Consult a doctor · Most peptides are research-only / not FDA-approved for human use
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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ARA-290 (also known as Cibinetide, ARA290, Cyclic helix B peptide) is a prominently researched experimental compound classified strictly within the EPO Receptor Agonist framework. Operating primarily through advanced pharmacological pathways, its core mechanism of action is as follows: it selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and CD131 (βc receptor). Unlike full erythropoietin, ARA-290 binds only the IRR and not the classical erythropoietic homodimer receptor, conferring tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory effects without affecting red blood cell production, hematocrit, or platelet aggregation. Reduces corneal nerve fiber loss and improves small fiber neuropathy symptoms. with a documented biological half-life of roughly 0.033 hours, In preclinical investigative trials and independent academic studies, researchers utilizing ARA-290 have documented significant, quantifiable biological outcomes, primarily focusing on neuropathic pain relief, small fiber neuropathy, anti-inflammation, tissue protection. Typical research protocols investigate administering 4000 to 4000mcg via subq pathways daily x 28 days. However, it is critically important to understand that while ARA-290 demonstrates profound physiological potential in highly controlled laboratory settings, it remains classified strictly as a research chemical and has not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human therapeutic, diagnostic, or dietary consumption. Independent chemical analysis via rigorous third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) testing utilizing High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) remains the industry gold standard for verifying its base elemental stability when reconstituted appropriately in sterile bacteriostatic water.
Selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and CD131 (βc receptor). Unlike full erythropoietin, ARA-290 binds only the IRR and not the classical erythropoietic homodimer receptor, conferring tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory effects without affecting red blood cell production, hematocrit, or platelet aggregation. Reduces corneal nerve fiber loss and improves small fiber neuropathy symptoms.
Culver et al. (Molecular Medicine): Phase 2 RCT — ARA-290 significantly improved neuropathic pain scores, fatigue, and corneal nerve fiber density in sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy vs placebo.
ModerateVan Velzen et al.: ARA-290 treatment stabilized corneal nerve fiber loss and reduced neuropathic pain scores in a diabetic neuropathy cohort, demonstrating nerve-protective effects.
ModerateBrines et al.: Defines the IRR as the mechanistic target for tissue protection, distinguishing it from the erythropoietic receptor and validating selective IRR agonists as safe alternatives to EPO.
PreclinicalHas completed Phase 2 human trials. Very short plasma half-life (~2 minutes) but prolonged pharmacodynamic effect. No erythropoietic activity — does not raise hematocrit. Well tolerated in trials. Not FDA-approved. Research only.
See our evidence grading methodology for how we evaluate and grade peptide safety data.
⚠️ For educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any peptide.
Phase 2 trial dose: 4mg SubQ daily for 28 days. Very short plasma half-life (~2 min) but prolonged downstream signaling.
Weeks 2–4
Neuropathic pain scores begin improving; corneal nerve fiber stabilization
Month 2–3
Sustained reduction in fatigue and pain in sarcoidosis neuropathy models
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
Injection site reaction | ~10% of trial participants | mild |
Mild headache | ~8% | mild |
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⚠️ Educational only · Not medical advice · For research use only. Information on this page is compiled from peer-reviewed literature and is intended strictly for educational and informational purposes. Peptides discussed may be unapproved research chemicals — consult a licensed healthcare professional before considering any peptide compound. Read our full disclaimer
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