AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) (Research Use Only)

Chemical Name: AICAR (Acadesine; AICA riboside)

CAS Number:
2627-69-2

Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₄N₄O₅

Molecular Weight: 258.23 g/mol

Appearance: Tan to off-white powder

Storage: Store at −20°C, protect from moisture and light

Form: Powder; soluble in DMSO (2 mg/mL) and water (less than 1 mg/mL)

Description

AICAR is a nucleoside analog and potent AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator. It is widely used in research to study cellular energy homeostasis, metabolic regulation, and signaling pathways involved in glucose uptake, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial biogenesis. AICAR’s role in activating AMPK makes it valuable in exploring therapeutic approaches for metabolic diseases, exercise physiology, and oncology.
(Wikipedia)
(PubChem)

Research Applications

AMPK activation and metabolic pathway regulation
Studies on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
Investigation of mitochondrial biogenesis and function
Exploration of cancer cell metabolism and growth inhibition
Exercise physiology and endurance enhancement research

Key References

Mechanism of Action

AICAR activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a critical cellular energy sensor that modulates anabolic and catabolic pathways to maintain energy balance. Through AMPK activation, AICAR promotes increased glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation while inhibiting lipid synthesis, supporting metabolic health and endurance.

Safety and Handling

Store AICAR powder at −20°C in a moisture-free environment. Reconstitute immediately before research use in DMSO or aqueous buffers. AICAR is generally well-tolerated in research with no significant toxicity reported.

Disclaimer

For laboratory research use only. Not for human, veterinary, medical, or diagnostic use. Provided solely for scientific and educational research purposes.