AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribofuranoside) is a cell-permeable, small-molecule nucleoside analog that acts as a potent activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). While often categorized in research circles alongside peptides, it is technically an adenosine analog rather than an amino acid sequence.

Key Features & Research Applications

• AMPK Activation: AICAR mimics the effects of exercise by allosterically activating AMPK, which is often referred to as the body's "master metabolic regulator".
  
  
  
• Metabolic Regulation: In research models, it stimulates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and increases fatty acid oxidation.
  
  
  
• Cardioprotection: It was originally developed to reduce ischemic injury during heart surgery by regulating adenosine levels.
  
  
  
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Studies suggest it may attenuate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and iNOS in certain cell types.
  
  
  
• Mitochondrial Biogenesis: It triggers cells to create more mitochondria, ensuring tissues have a sustained energy supply.
  
  
  

Technical Specifications

Available Configurations

AICAR is primarily available in standardized laboratory formats for researchers:

• Lyophilized Powder: The most common form, typically sold in vials of 1mg, 5mg, 10mg, 50mg, and 100mg.
  
  
  
• Bulk Quantities: Some suppliers offer larger scales (e.g., 500mg or 1g) for high-throughput screening or institutional research.
  
  
  
• Pre-Dissolved Solutions: Occasionally available as a stabilized stock solution in DMSO for immediate laboratory use.
  
  
  
• Research Combinations: Often studied alongside other compounds like GW501516 (a PPARδ agonist) to observe synergistic metabolic effects.
  
  
  

Regulatory Status: AICAR is strictly for laboratory research and analytical purposes.