ARA-290
Tissue-Protective Peptideclinical_trialsAlso known as: Cibinetide, Wolverine Peptide, EPO-derived peptide
An 11-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from erythropoietin (EPO) that promotes tissue repair and neuroprotection without stimulating red blood cell production.
Overview
ARA-290 (Cibinetide), commonly called the 'Wolverine Peptide' in biohacking communities, is an 11-amino acid peptide derived from the structure of erythropoietin (EPO). Unlike EPO itself, ARA-290 does not stimulate erythropoiesis (red blood cell production) but retains powerful tissue-protective and repair-signaling properties. It works by selectively activating the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of EPO receptor and CD131 (beta common receptor), which is expressed on damaged tissues. This selective activation triggers anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and regenerative pathways without the thromboembolic risks of EPO. ARA-290 has been studied in clinical trials for sarcoidosis-related neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and chronic pain conditions. Its nickname 'Wolverine Peptide' comes from anecdotal reports of accelerated healing.
Mechanism of Action
ARA-290 selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heterodimer of the EPO receptor and CD131 (beta common receptor). This receptor is upregulated in damaged and inflamed tissues. Activation triggers: (1) Anti-apoptotic signaling via JAK2/STAT5 and PI3K/Akt pathways; (2) Suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1beta; (3) Promotion of anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization (M1 to M2 switch); (4) Enhancement of Schwann cell survival and axonal regeneration in peripheral nerves; (5) Reduction of oxidative stress in damaged tissues.
Molecular Formula
C52H80N14O16
Molecular Weight
1149.28 g/mol
Sequence
Gln-Glu-Gln-Leu-Glu-Arg-Ala-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ser
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
2mg – 4mg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
subcutaneous
Cycle Length
4-12 weeks
Based on clinical trial dosing. Start at lower dose and assess tolerance.
Source: Phase 2 clinical trial protocols
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
5mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
Erythropoietin-derived tissue-protective peptide. Research phase only. Limited vendor availability.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Injection site reaction | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Fatigue | mild |
| Nausea | mild |
Pros & Cons
Tissue-protective benefits of EPO without dangerous red blood cell overproduction or blood clotting risks
Has undergone actual human clinical trials with good safety data
Targets the innate repair receptor selectively upregulated in damaged tissue
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects documented in multiple studies
Not yet FDA-approved; still in clinical development
Limited availability and relatively expensive compared to other peptides
Clinical trial results for neuropathy have been mixed
Less community experience compared to established peptides like BPC-157
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
Investigational drug. Not FDA-approved. Has undergone Phase 2 clinical trials. Available as a research chemical. Not explicitly scheduled in most jurisdictions.
Readers Also Viewed
Semaglutide
99An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, producing significant weight loss of 15-17% body weight in clinical trials.
BPC-157
98A 15-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from human gastric juice that promotes healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, gut lining, and other tissues through multiple regenerative pathways.
Tirzepatide
97A first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that produces up to 22.5% body weight loss, approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity management.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin (Combo)
95The most popular growth hormone peptide combination, pairing a GHRH analog (CJC-1295) with a ghrelin mimetic (Ipamorelin) for synergistic GH release with minimal side effects.
Related Peptides
Semaglutide
An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, producing significant weight loss of 15-17% body weight in clinical trials.
BPC-157
A 15-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from human gastric juice that promotes healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, gut lining, and other tissues through multiple regenerative pathways.
Tirzepatide
A first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that produces up to 22.5% body weight loss, approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity management.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin (Combo)
The most popular growth hormone peptide combination, pairing a GHRH analog (CJC-1295) with a ghrelin mimetic (Ipamorelin) for synergistic GH release with minimal side effects.