AICAR Peptide

5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside. An AMPK activator studied extensively in metabolic and exercise physiology research.

$55.00

Quick Facts

SKUACR-AICAR
CAS Number2627-69-2
Molecular FormulaC₉H₁₄N₄O₅
Molecular Weight258.23 g/mol
SequenceN/A (nucleoside analog)
Purity≥98%
Physical FormLyophilized Powder
StorageStore at -20°C.

What is AICAR?

AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside, Acadesine) is a cell-permeable nucleoside analog that functions as an AMPK activator. Upon cellular uptake, AICAR is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase to ZMP (AICA-ribotide, or AICAR monophosphate), which mimics AMP and directly activates AMPK allosterically. AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) is the master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AICAR-mediated AMPK activation has been extensively studied in published literature for its downstream effects on glucose uptake (GLUT4 translocation), fatty acid oxidation (ACC phosphorylation), mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1alpha activation), and autophagy. For laboratory research use only.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AICAR?

AICAR (Acadesine) is a nucleoside analog converted intracellularly to ZMP, which mimics AMP and directly activates AMPK. It is one of the most widely used pharmacological AMPK activators in research. For research use only.

How does AICAR compare to MOTS-c for AMPK activation?

AICAR activates AMPK directly — ZMP binds the AMPK gamma subunit allosterically. MOTS-c activates AMPK indirectly by inhibiting folate cycle enzyme ATIC, causing endogenous AICAR/ZMP accumulation. Both converge on AMPK but through different upstream mechanisms.

For laboratory and research use only. Not intended for human or animal consumption. All product information is derived from published preclinical research and does not constitute medical advice or claims.