Summary
ARA-290 is an 11-amino-acid peptide modelled on part of erythropoietin. It activates EPO’s tissue-protective receptor without stimulating red blood cell production. Small randomized trials in sarcoidosis-associated small fibre neuropathy reported improved symptoms and corneal nerve density.
Structure
pGlu-Glu-Gln-Leu-Glu-Arg-Ala-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ser. Mimics helix B of erythropoietin.
How it works
It binds the innate repair receptor, a complex of the EPO receptor with the beta common receptor (CD131), which mediates anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective signalling.
Research use cases
Areas where ARA-290 has been studied. Inclusion here does not mean it works for that purpose.
- Small fibre neuropathy in sarcoidosis
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Neuroprotection
What the research found
Tissue protection without erythropoiesis
Brines and colleagues showed that peptides mimicking EPO’s helix B were protective in models of injury without raising haematocrit.1
Sarcoidosis neuropathy
In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, patients receiving ARA-290 had improved neuropathic symptoms and increased corneal nerve fibre density.2
Safety and open questions
Well tolerated in early trials. Does not raise red blood cell counts.
Regulatory status
Investigational. Studied in phase 2 trials. Not approved.
Status was accurate when this page was last reviewed on October 26, 2026. Regulations change; check with the relevant authority before relying on it.
ARA-290: common questions
Does ARA-290 raise haemoglobin like EPO?
No. It was designed to avoid the EPO receptor homodimer that drives red cell production.
Is ARA-290 approved for human use?
Investigational. Studied in phase 2 trials. Not approved.
References
- Brines M, Patel NSA, Villa P, et al. (2008). Nonerythropoietic, tissue-protective peptides derived from the tertiary structure of erythropoietin. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
- Dahan A, Dunne A, Swartjes M, et al. (2013). ARA 290 improves symptoms in patients with sarcoidosis-associated small nerve fiber loss and increases corneal nerve fiber density. Molecular Medicine.
Links open a PubMed search for the exact title, or the original source where one is given.