ARA-290 (Cibinetide)
Peptide sperimentale per la ricerca su neuropatia, infiammazione, rigenerazione tissutale e protezione vascolare.
What is ARA-290
ARA-290, also known as Cibinetide, is a peptide derived from the beta-helix domain of erythropoietin (EPO). Unlike EPO, which stimulates red blood cell production, ARA-290 retains its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties without affecting erythropoiesis. Research has shown that the peptide acts through Innate Repair Receptors (IRR) and Tissue-Protective Receptors (TPR), modulating immune response and promoting cellular regeneration.
In preclinical and phase II clinical studies, ARA-290 demonstrated a reduction in neuropathic pain, a decrease in systemic inflammatory markers, and enhanced cell survival. It is currently undergoing phase III trials for neuropathies related to diabetes and autoimmune sarcoidosis.
Vascular Health and Angiogenesis
In experimental models of retinal ischemia—one of the leading causes of blindness—ARA-290 has shown the ability to protect endothelial cells from inflammatory damage and promote their regeneration. Studies indicate that the peptide prolongs the survival of endothelial progenitor cells (ECFCs), stimulates their proliferation and migration, and enhances their homing ability toward damaged tissues.
These properties open new perspectives for vascular repair and ischemic tissue regeneration, improving blood flow and oxygenation in compromised tissues. The ability of ARA-290 to support endothelial function also suggests a potential role in post-infarction recovery and diabetic microvascular disorders.
Modulation of Inflammatory Cytokines
Research in animal models shows that ARA-290 significantly reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α. This effect is mediated through binding to the Tissue-Protective Receptor (TPR), triggering a cascade of signals that limit apoptosis and promote regeneration.
In particular, ARA-290 can prolong the survival of transplanted pancreatic cells in diabetic models by counteracting macrophage activation responsible for rejection. These findings represent a potential breakthrough in islet cell replacement therapy and anti-rejection strategies after transplantation.
Effects on the Immune System
The TPR is expressed on various immune cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells, and T-lymphocytes. ARA-290 acts on these receptors to reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and limit inflammatory chemotaxis. At the same time, it promotes the recruitment of resident macrophages in injured tissues, supporting balanced and accelerated healing.
Other studies show that the peptide can modulate dendritic cell antigen presentation, influencing adaptive immune response and reducing organ rejection in experimental transplants. These functions make ARA-290 a promising candidate in the study of new selective immunomodulatory therapies, applicable to conditions such as autoimmune colitis, Crohn’s disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Neuropathic Pain and Neuroprotection
One of the most promising areas of ARA-290 research concerns peripheral neuropathy. The peptide acts on IRR (Innate Repair Receptors) and modulates TRPV1 channel activity, which is responsible for heat perception and the burning pain typical of diabetic or autoimmune neuropathies. This dual mechanism contributes to reducing neuroinflammation and restoring small nerve fiber function.
Clinical studies in patients with sarcoid or diabetic neuropathy have shown an increase in intraepidermal nerve fiber density and a significant reduction in pain. These results suggest that ARA-290 may represent a new therapeutic approach for refractory neuropathies, including conditions such as HIV, multiple sclerosis, or celiac disease.
Orphan Drug Status and Clinical Trials
In 2016, the FDA granted ARA-290 (Cibinetide) orphan drug status for the treatment of painful sarcoid neuropathy. The following year, scientific publications led by Michael Brines confirmed the peptide’s efficacy in treating peripheral neuropathic pain and promoting small nerve fiber regeneration.
Currently, ARA-290 is in phase III clinical trials for diabetic and sarcoid neuropathy, but its potential also extends to autoimmune diseases, ischemic injuries, and slow wound healing.
Research and Safety
ARA-290 has shown a favorable safety profile with minimal side effects and high subcutaneous bioavailability in preclinical studies. Thanks to its targeted anti-inflammatory mechanism and receptor selectivity, it is considered a valuable candidate for research in neuroprotective, vascular, and immunoregulatory therapies.
All Pepticore Aminos products are intended strictly for scientific research use (Research Use Only) and are not to be used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
