ARA-290Also known as: Ara-290, Arachnoid peptide 290

Mechanism of Action

ARA-290 is a synthetic peptide derived from erythropoietin (EPO) that selectively binds to the EPOR-CD131 receptor complex, also known as the innate repair receptor. This receptor engagement activates tissue repair and anti-inflammatory pathways without triggering the hematopoietic (red blood cell production) effects associated with full EPO molecules. Through EPOR-CD131 activation, ARA-290 promotes nerve regeneration, reduces oxidative stress, and modulates inflammatory cascades to protect and repair damaged tissues.

Reported Research Benefits

ARA-290 is commonly researched for peripheral nerve recovery, reduction of neuropathic pain, tissue protection during inflammatory processes, improvement of microcirculation and oxygen delivery, as well as modulation of oxidative stress. It is studied in contexts such as sarcoidosis, diabetes complications, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Dosing Protocol & Reconstitution

In laboratory research, ARA-290 is typically prepared from lyophilized powder dissolved in bacteriostatic water. Dosing is calculated precisely with peptide calculators to ensure experimental accuracy. Although human dosing is not established, preclinical protocols often involve low microgram to milligram ranges delivered via injection routes in animal models. Stability after reconstitution demands refrigerated storage (2–8°C) and use within 60 days.

Research Notes

Preclinical studies indicate ARA-290 reduces neuropathic pain and promotes nerve tissue repair without hematopoietic side effects. It shows promise in treating diabetic neuropathy and inflammatory conditions. Half-life details are not explicitly stated but inferred to suit repeated dosing in animal models. Batch purity is maintained at ≥99%, ensuring consistent experimental results.

Research Summary

ARA-290 is an 11-amino-acid helix B surface peptide derived from erythropoietin that selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) without stimulating erythropoiesis. Clinical trials in sarcoidosis-associated small-fiber neuropathy demonstrated significant improvements in nerve fiber density, pain, and metabolic parameters. It exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective effects.

Side Effects & Safety

Phase II trials reported minimal adverse events with no hematological side effects. Mild injection site discomfort was noted. Unlike EPO, no thrombotic or cardiovascular risk elevation observed. Limited data in populations outside sarcoidosis.

Stability & Storage

Refer to research notes

Molecular Data

Sequence: CQKSHKAKRMSH
Molecular Formula: C78H139N27O21
Molecular Weight: 1818.3 g/mol
CAS Number: NA (research peptide, no assigned CAS number)
IUPAC Name: L-cysteinyl-L-glutaminyl-L-lysyl-L-seryl-L-histidyl-L-lysyl-L-alanyl-L-lysyl-L-arginyl-L-methionyl-L-seryl-L-histidine

Primary literature: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=ARA-290+erythropoietin+neuropathy