Aicar
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
AICAR — Cell-Permeable AMPK Activator for Metabolic Research
AICAR (Acadesine) is a cell-permeable nucleoside analog that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. First described by Corton et al. (1995), AICAR has become one of the most widely used pharmacological tools in metabolic research, spanning exercise physiology, glucose metabolism, and mitochondrial biogenesis.
Mechanism of Action
AICAR enters cells via adenosine transporters and is phosphorylated to ZMP, an AMP mimetic that binds the γ-subunit of AMPK, triggering allosteric activation. This shifts metabolism toward catabolic pathways — fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, mitochondrial biogenesis. Narkar et al. (2008, Cell) showed AICAR increased running endurance by 44% in sedentary mice.
Key Research Areas
- AMPK Activation & Energy Sensing: Gold-standard pharmacological AMPK activator for studying energy depletion responses, mTOR suppression, and autophagy.
- Exercise Mimetic Research: Recapitulates molecular adaptations of endurance exercise: PGC-1α upregulation, mitochondrial biogenesis, slow-twitch fiber switching.
- Glucose Metabolism: Increases GLUT4 translocation for insulin-independent glucose uptake in muscle cell models.
- Lipid Metabolism: Phosphorylates ACC, reducing malonyl-CoA and stimulating CPT1-dependent fatty acid oxidation.
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of AICAR supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our AICAR is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability and shelf life, shipped worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying related pathways may also find these compounds relevant: 5-Amino-1MQ, MOTS-c, and SLU-PP-332. Browse our Metabolic Research collection.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.
