What Is ARA-290?
ARA-290 is a synthetic 11-amino-acid peptide derived from a non-erythropoietic region of the erythropoietin (EPO) protein. Unlike erythropoietin itself, ARA-290 is specifically designed to interact with the innate repair receptor (IRR) — a heteromeric complex distinct from the classical EPO receptor — without stimulating red blood cell production. This selectivity has made ARA-290 of significant interest to researchers investigating tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory signalling pathways. TrueCanPeptides carries ARA-290 10mg for verified laboratory research use.
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Mechanism of Action
ARA-290 is believed to bind the innate repair receptor (IRR), which is thought to be composed of the EPO receptor and the common beta chain (βcR, CD131). This receptor configuration differs from the homodimeric classical EPO receptor responsible for erythropoiesis, allowing ARA-290 to activate tissue-protective signalling without haematopoietic side effects in preclinical models.
In preclinical studies, IRR engagement by ARA-290 has been associated with modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, including downregulation of TNF-α and IL-6 in certain cellular models. ARA-290 has also been investigated in the context of neuroprotective pathways, with research examining its effects on small nerve fibre integrity in animal models.
It is important to note that ARA-290 does not bind the canonical EPO receptor with significant affinity and does not stimulate erythropoiesis or IGF-1 production in the models studied to date.
Research Applications
ARA-290 has been investigated across several preclinical and early translational research contexts:
- Neuroprotection research: Studied in rodent models examining small nerve fibre density and peripheral nerve biology following injury or metabolic insult.
- Anti-inflammatory signalling: Investigated in vitro and in vivo for modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine cascades via IRR engagement.
- Tissue-protective pathways: Explored in models of ischaemia-reperfusion and cellular stress for its ability to activate survival pathways without erythropoietic activity.
- Metabolic research context: Some preclinical research has examined ARA-290 in the context of metabolic dysfunction models and associated inflammatory states.
All ARA-290 applications listed are investigational and for preclinical or in vitro research only. Visit the TrueCanPeptides Research Hub →
Storage & Handling
ARA-290 should be stored in lyophilised form at −20°C in a sealed, moisture-protected container. For reconstitution, sterile water or a compatible physiological buffer is appropriate depending on the assay. Aliquot reconstituted peptide to minimise freeze-thaw cycling and store at −80°C for extended stability. Keep away from repeated temperature fluctuations and direct light exposure.
See the TrueCanPeptides Peptide Storage Guide for detailed protocols, and our quality and purity standards for specification details.
Related Research
Researchers investigating neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory peptide signalling may also find the following compound guides relevant:
- SS-31 (Elamipretide) — mitochondria-targeting peptide investigated in oxidative stress and cardioprotection research
- VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) — neuropeptide studied in neuroimmune modulation research
- KPV — tripeptide fragment studied in anti-inflammatory signalling research
Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational and research purposes only. The compounds discussed on this page are not approved for human therapeutic use by Health Canada or any other regulatory authority. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. TrueCanPeptides supplies research compounds strictly for in vitro and laboratory research use. All information presented is derived from published preclinical and early-phase research literature and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
See also: What is LL-37?