ARA-290
Clinical TrialsARA-290
A non-erythropoietic analog of erythropoietin researched for neuropathic pain, nerve repair, and metabolic benefits in type 2 diabetes research.
Dose
2 mg
Route
SubQ injection
Cycle
Typically 28 days to 3 months in research settings, with some protocols extending to 6 months
Storage
Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F) and protected from light
What is ARA-290?
ARA-290 is a non-erythropoietic peptide derived from the helix B region of erythropoietin (Epo). Unlike full-length Epo, ARA-290 does not stimulate erythropoiesis, avoiding concerns about increased red blood cell production. It acts by binding to the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heteromeric complex composed of the Epo receptor and the β-common receptor (CD131). This binding initiates cell-protective, anti-inflammatory, and tissue repair pathways, making it a subject of research for conditions involving tissue injury, inflammation, and neuropathic pain, particularly small fiber neuropathy (SFN) and type 2 diabetes.
Key Benefits
- Neuropathic pain reduction
- Nerve repair
- Anti-inflammatory
- Potential metabolic benefits
- Small fiber neuropathy research
Mechanism of Action
- Binds innate repair receptor (IRR)
- Promotes tissue protection and repair
- Anti-inflammatory signaling
- No effect on red blood cell production
Best For
- Nerve pain research
- Neuropathy research
- Sarcoidosis research
Body Systems

🐾 Griffin Says...
Molecular Information
Molecular weight
3388.92 g/mol
Length
37
Type
Peptide
Amino acid sequence
QGEERA-RRSQETLLRALSATAA-GPPGL-ARA-290 represents the 11-amino acid peptide corresponding to the helix B region of erythropoietin (amino acids 111-121) with additional modifications for stability and binding specificity. The specific full 37-amino acid sequence is not widely published, but the active site is known to be a modified fragment of erythropoietin.
ARA-290 is an 11-amino acid peptide derived from erythropoietin (Epo) helix B, with the sequence: pQ-Q-E-E-R-A-S-S-L-R-A-L-L-S-A-T-T-T-G-P-P-G-L-S-Y-L-S-L-S-L-R-T-S-R-R-S-Q-E-T-L-L-R-A-L-S-A-T-A-A-P-P-P-G-L. The full sequence provided in some literature combines a 26-amino acid sequence with a 11-amino acid fragment from Epo, specifically designed for improved stability and receptor binding.
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
Approximately 1-2 hours
Half-life
Very short — roughly 2 minutes in plasma after IV in human studies, with biological effects far outlasting exposure
Time to clear
Not extensively characterized; likely rapidly metabolized
Clinical trials and preclinical studies, but specific human pharmacokinetic data on half-life are limited in publicly available literature.
Research Indications
Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN)
Research indicates ARA-290 can improve neuropathic pain, nerve fiber density, and neurological symptoms in individuals with SFN, including those associated with sarcoidosis and type 2 diabetes.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Studies suggest ARA-290 may mitigate nerve damage and reduce pain in diabetic neuropathy models by promoting nerve repair and reducing inflammation.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neuropathic Pain Reduction (e.g., SFN) | 2 mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Nerve Repair/Regeneration | 2 mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Anti-inflammatory Effects | 2 mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Metabolic Benefit Research (Type 2 Diabetes) | 2 mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
Adherence to a consistent daily administration schedule is commonly discussed in research protocols to maintain steady peptide levels and optimize therapeutic potential.
Peptide Interactions
- Monitor Combination
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone)
Both ARA-290 and corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory effects. While not a contraindication, concurrent use in research may require monitoring for additive or synergistic effects on inflammation and potential for corticosteroid dose reduction.
- Compatible
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Commonly used for pain and inflammation, NSAIDs are generally considered compatible. ARA-290's distinct anti-inflammatory mechanism may offer complementary benefits.
- Monitor Combination
Immunosuppressants
Given ARA-290's immunomodulatory properties, co-administration with other immunosuppressants warrants careful monitoring in research settings to assess combined effects on the immune system.
- Monitor Combination
Diabetic Medications (e.g., Metformin, Insulin)
For research involving metabolic benefits in type 2 diabetes, ARA-290 is not expected to interfere with standard diabetic medications but blood glucose levels should be closely monitored for potential adjunctive effects.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather materials: lyophilized ARA-290 vial, bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI), sterile syringes, and alcohol wipes.
- 2Clean the rubber stopper of the ARA-290 vial and the BWFI vial with alcohol wipes.
- 3Using a sterile syringe, draw the appropriate amount of BWFI (e.g., 1 ml for a 2 mg vial to achieve 2 mg/ml concentration).
- 4Slowly inject the BWFI into the ARA-290 vial, directing the stream against the side of the vial to minimize agitation.
- 5Gently swirl the vial to facilitate dissolution. Do not shake, as this can denature the peptide.
- 6Once fully dissolved (solution should be clear and colorless, free of particulates), store the reconstituted peptide as recommended.
Aseptically reconstitute with bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI). Gently swirl, do not shake, to avoid damaging the peptide structure.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-4: Some research participants may report initial subtle improvements in neuropathic pain symptoms or general well-being. Anti-inflammatory effects may begin.
- Weeks 4-8: More noticeable reductions in pain intensity, improved sensory function in cases of small fiber neuropathy, and potential enhancements in nerve conduction velocity may be observed in research.
- Weeks 8-12: Sustained and more pronounced benefits in pain management, nerve regeneration, and inflammation markers are often noted in longer-term studies.
- Months 3-6: Continued improvement in clinical symptoms and objective measures of nerve health, with potential benefits extending to metabolic parameters in relevant research populations.
- Long-term research (beyond 6 months): Maintenance of benefits and potential for further tissue repair and protective effects with continued administration, depending on the specific research question.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Minimal reported in trials | Rare | Mild |
Ready to calculate your dose? Use Griffin's Peptide Calculator 🐾
Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.