ARA-290 (Non-Erythropoietic EPO Analogue)

1. Product Overview

ARA-290 is a highly specific synthetic peptide fragment. It is derived from the helix beta domain of the naturally occurring hormone erythropoietin (EPO).

Crucially, ARA-290 is engineered to be non-erythropoietic. This means that, unlike full-length EPO, it does not stimulate the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis), which eliminates the risk of increased blood viscosity commonly associated with EPO administration.

Instead, ARA-290 selectively targets and activates the Innate Repair Receptor (IRR). This activation initiates powerful tissue-protective, pro-survival, and anti-inflammatory signaling cascades, making it a primary candidate for research in various complex inflammatory and neuropathic conditions.

Primary Research Candidates

Condition

Mechanism of Benefit

Neuropathic Pain

Reduces pain signaling and promotes neuronal repair

Diabetic Complications

Enhances microcirculation and protects against vascular damage

Autoimmune Sarcoidosis

Downregulates systemic inflammatory cytokines

2. Mechanism of Action

ARA-290 functions by targeting the heteromeric receptor complex known as the Innate Repair Receptor (IRR). This complex is composed of two subunits: the Erythropoietin Receptor (EPOR) and the beta-common receptor (βcR).

The selective activation of the IRR by ARA-290 leads to three primary therapeutic effects:

Reduces Inflammation

ARA-290 modulates the immune response by shifting the balance away from damaging inflammation. It achieves this by downregulating the production and release of several key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6, which are implicated in chronic disease and tissue damage.

Promotes Neuroprotection

In the nervous system, ARA-290 supports neuronal survival and function. It has been shown to reduce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in damaged neurons and glial cells. Furthermore, its direct action on pain pathways helps to interrupt and reduce chronic neuropathic pain signaling.

Enhances Microcirculation

The peptide supports vascular health by improving endothelial function and maintaining vascular integrity. This enhancement of microcirculation is critical for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues under stress, particularly relevant in complications arising from diabetes.

3. Advanced Manufacturing: Lyophilization

The high stability and purity of ARA-290 are achieved through a specialized manufacturing technique called lyophilization, or cryodesiccation. This process is essential for preserving the biological activity of the synthetic peptide.

The Lyophilization Process

Lyophilization involves three distinct stages:

1. Freezing: The bulk peptide solution is frozen to a temperature well below its eutectic point. This ensures that the water in the solution is converted entirely to ice.
2. Primary Drying (Sublimation): The frozen material is exposed to a high vacuum and a carefully controlled, low temperature. Under these conditions, the solid ice turns directly into water vapor (sublimation), bypassing the liquid phase. This removes approximately 95% of the water content.
3. Secondary Drying (Desorption): The temperature is slightly raised to remove residual, non-frozen water molecules that are physically or chemically bound to the peptide structure (desorption).

The final product is a highly porous, stable, white crystalline structure, which is then sealed in an airtight vial.

Lyophilization Stage

Key Action

Result

Freezing

Convert liquid to solid ice

Preserves structural integrity

Primary Drying

Sublimation of ice to vapor

Removes free water

Secondary Drying

Desorption of bound water

Maximizes long-term stability

4. Storage and Stability Profile

The lyophilized form of ARA-290 provides exceptional stability under a range of conditions, maximizing its shelf life for research purposes.

Shipping & Short-Term Stability

Parameter

Condition

Duration

Notes

Shipping

Ambient Temperature

3–4 Months

Lyophilization ensures stability for transport.

Short-Term Storage

Refrigeration (<4°C / 39°F)

Weeks to Months

Suitable for immediate and near-future use.

Long-Term Storage

For maximal structural integrity and biological activity, the lyophilized powder should be stored under deep-freeze conditions.

Recommended Long-Term Storage: Store lyophilized powder at -80°C (-112°F). This condition provides the longest possible stability, extending the usable life from months to years.

5. Reconstitution Guidelines

Proper reconstitution is critical to maintain the activity and sterility of the ARA-290 solution.

Reconstitution Procedure

1. Preparation: Allow the vial of lyophilized ARA-290 to equilibrate to room temperature (15–25°C) prior to opening.
2. Solvent: Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Bacteriostatic water is preferred over sterile water for injection as the antimicrobial agent (e.g., benzyl alcohol) increases the solution's shelf life.
3. Mixing: Gently inject the bacteriostatic water into the vial, allowing it to dissolve the crystalline powder. Do not shake the vial, as this can denature the peptide. Swirl gently or allow it to dissolve over a short period.
4. Usage: Once reconstituted, the solution is ready for immediate use.

Storage of Reconstituted Solution

• Temperature: Store the reconstituted solution under refrigeration at <4°C (39°F).
• Duration: The solution must be used within 30 days of reconstitution. Any remaining solution after 30 days should be properly discarded.

6. Product Handling and Research Use

ARA-290 is a research-grade product intended for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research only. It is not for human or veterinary use.

Safety Precautions

Researchers must adhere to standard laboratory practices (GLP/GMP) when handling this product. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) are available for detailed safety information and purity specifications. Please consult the File SDS and CoA documentation before use.

Ordering and Technical Support

For technical inquiries regarding dosage, administration, or stability testing, please contact our Technical Support team at Person via email. Orders can be placed online or through our authorized distributors.

Order Processing and Shipping: Research material is shipped from our secure facility at Place following the completion of required documentation.

For upcoming research seminars on non-erythropoietic EPO analogues, please register for the event: Calendar event Upcoming Seminar Registration on Date.