ARA-290
Also known as
Non-erythropoietic erythropoietin-derived peptide (cibinetide) investigated for neuropathic pain and tissue recovery. Limited evidence — a small human study in sarcoidosis neuropathy showed improved pain scores; remaining data are preclinical.
Evidence
Small or single human study
Risk band
Known AEs, monitoring advised
Research goals
Summary
ARA 290 (cibinetide) is a non-erythropoietic peptide derived from erythropoietin being investigated for neuropathic and inflammatory conditions [1,3]. In sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy, ARA 290 treatment was associated with improved neuropathic pain scores, increased corneal nerve fibers, improved sensory pain thresholds, and better quality of life and physical functioning, with a favorable safety profile, though this is framed as promising rather than definitive [1]. Mechanistic and preclinical work indicates it can inhibit TRPV1 channel activity to relieve capsaicin-induced hypersensitivity [2] and can modulate monocytes to slow Alzheimer-like pathology in mouse models, with effects that were stronger early and lost in aged/late-onset models [3]. Overall the human evidence is limited to small interventional work in sarcoid neuropathy, with the broader literature being preclinical; conclusions about therapeutic benefit remain preliminary.
Sources
- 1. ARA 290 for treatment of small fiber neuropathy in sarcoidosis Expert opinion on investigational drugs, 2014.
- 2. ARA 290 relieves pathophysiological pain by targeting TRPV1 channel: Integration between immune system and nociception Peptides, 2016.
- 3. Early monocyte modulation by the non-erythropoietic peptide ARA 290 decelerates AD-like pathology progression Brain, behavior, and immunity, 2022.
For educational purposes only.