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.



