# ARA-290

> Evidence tier A — Controlled human trials · Repair · reviewed 2026-11-08
> Source page: https://peptidemeta.com/p/ara-290/

Also known as: Cibinetide, ARA 290, Helix B surface peptide

## Quick answers

**What is ARA-290?**

An erythropoietin-derived peptide that activates the innate repair receptor without stimulating red blood cell production. Non-erythropoietic 11-residue peptide derived from helix B of erythropoietin.

**How strong is the evidence for ARA-290?**

Tier A (controlled human trials) on the peptidemeta evidence scale. Small randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2 trials have been published (sarcoidosis-associated small-fiber neuropathy, type 2 diabetes); not approved.

**Is ARA-290 FDA-approved?**

No. ARA-290 is not approved by the FDA for any use. Granted orphan designation for sarcoidosis; no approval.

**Is ARA-290 banned in sport?**

Yes. ARA-290 is prohibited in sport by the World Anti-Doping Agency under S2 (peptide hormones, growth factors, related substances and mimetics).

**How does ARA-290 work?**

ARA-290 is an 11-amino-acid peptide derived from the helix B surface of erythropoietin that selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the EPO receptor and beta common receptor. This triggers anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory signaling through JAK2/STAT5 without stimulating erythropoiesis.

**What is known about the safety of ARA-290?**

Phase II human trial data show acceptable safety with no erythropoietic stimulation. Mild injection site reactions reported.

## Key facts

- **Evidence tier:** A (Controlled human trials)
- **FDA:** not approved
- **WADA:** prohibited (S2)
- **Peptide:** yes
- **Routes studied:** Subcutaneous, Intramuscular

## Overview

An erythropoietin-derived peptide that activates the innate repair receptor without stimulating red blood cell production. Investigated for neuropathic pain and tissue protection.

## Mechanism

ARA-290 is an 11-amino-acid peptide derived from the helix B surface of erythropoietin that selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the EPO receptor and beta common receptor. This triggers anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory signaling through JAK2/STAT5 without stimulating erythropoiesis.

## Effects reported in research

_Reported outcomes, not promises; see the evidence tier._

- Neuropathic pain reduction
- Nerve fiber regeneration
- Anti-inflammatory tissue protection
- Improved metabolic parameters in diabetic neuropathy

## Safety & unknowns

Phase II human trial data show acceptable safety with no erythropoietic stimulation. Mild injection site reactions reported. Not FDA-approved. Orphan drug designation for sarcoidosis.

## Status sources

- [Dahan et al. 2013, Mol Med (RCT)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24136731/)
- [ClinicalTrials.gov: ARA 290](https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?intr=ARA%20290)
- [WADA 2026 Prohibited List](https://www.wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list)

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Educational reference only — not medical advice. No dosing information is published. Tiers rate the strength of published evidence, not effectiveness or safety.