≥99% HPLC Purity MS Confirmed Janoshik COA In-House SPPS 8-Region Worldwide Shipping
Compound type: AMPK Agonist via ZMP — Exercise Mimetic CAS Number: 2627-69-2
What is AICAR?
AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a cell-permeable adenosine analogue that is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase to ZMP (AICAR monophosphate). ZMP mimics AMP — the endogenous AMPK activating nucleotide — allosterically activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) at the γ-subunit regulatory site. AMPK activation drives: mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1α upregulation), fatty acid oxidation (ACC2 inhibition), glucose uptake (GLUT4 translocation), and glycolysis inhibition. AICAR is extensively studied as an exercise mimetic — producing many metabolic adaptations of physical training without muscle contraction. Key studies include Narkar et al. (2008, Cell) demonstrating 44% improvement in running endurance in sedentary mice.
Research Applications
AMPK Activation
Direct ZMP-mediated AMPK activation — gold standard pharmacological tool
Exercise Mimetic
PGC-1α/mitochondrial biogenesis and fatty acid oxidation without exercise
Glucose Metabolism
GLUT4 translocation and insulin-independent glucose uptake research
Endurance Research
Narkar 2008 Cell study — 44% endurance improvement in sedentary mice
NASH/Metabolic Syndrome
Hepatic AMPK activation for fatty liver and metabolic disease models
AICAR is an adenosine analogue that activates AMPK (the cellular energy sensor) by being converted intracellularly to ZMP, which mimics AMP. AMPK activation drives mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose uptake — producing many exercise-like metabolic adaptations. The Narkar 2008 Cell paper showed 44% endurance improvement in sedentary mice with AICAR alone.
How is AICAR reconstituted?
Add 1–2mL bacteriostatic water to the lyophilized AICAR vial. AICAR is a small molecule that dissolves readily to a clear solution. Swirl gently. Store reconstituted at 2–8°C for up to 14 days.
What purity is QSC AICAR?
QSC AICAR is ≥99% HPLC pure with MS-confirmed molecular identity (MW 338.2 Da) on every batch. COA is verifiable at verify.janoshik.com.
Research Use Only: All QSC compounds are sold strictly for laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption, veterinary use, or any other application. Researchers are responsible for compliance with local regulations.
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