AICAR

Overview

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside, Acadesine) is a nucleoside analogue and AMPK activator. Note: AICAR is not a peptide—it is a nucleotide precursor/analog. It is sold by some research peptide vendors due to its metabolic and exercise-mimicking applications alongside conventional peptides.

Mechanism of Action

AICAR is phosphorylated intracellularly to AICAR monophosphate (ZMP), which structurally mimics AMP and activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by binding its allosteric site. AMPK activation increases fatty acid oxidation, enhances glucose uptake, improves insulin sensitivity, and upregulates mitochondrial biogenesis.

Common Research Uses

• AMPK activation and metabolic research
• Exercise physiology and endurance studies
• Insulin sensitivity research
• Mitochondrial biogenesis studies
• Cardioprotection research

Vendors That Carry AICAR