AICAR: An AMPK-Activating Metabolic Research Guide
What is AICAR?
AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a small molecule studied for its ability to activate AMPK, a central cellular energy sensor. It is one of the best-known research compounds in the exercise-mimetic category – compounds investigated for whether they can reproduce some of the metabolic adaptations of endurance exercise. Although a nucleotide analogue rather than a peptide, it sits alongside compounds like SLU-PP-332 in metabolic and endurance research.
Studied mechanisms of action
In research models, AICAR is taken up by cells and converted to a molecule that mimics AMP, the signal that accumulates when cellular energy is low. This activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the master regulator of cellular energy balance. Through AMPK activation, AICAR is studied for promoting glucose uptake, fatty-acid oxidation and mitochondrial biogenesis – the same adaptations associated with endurance training. Because it switches on this pathway directly, AICAR is used as a research tool to probe AMPK-driven metabolism and the exercise-mimetic hypothesis in isolation.
The state of the research
AICAR has a long preclinical literature in metabolism, endurance and AMPK-signalling research, where it is a standard tool for activating the AMPK pathway. Within the research-compound community its use is experimental and model-dependent, and its handling reflects its relatively high working quantities. Results remain preclinical.
Handling & storage for research
Supplied as a lyophilised powder. Store sealed vials cold and protected from light; reconstitute with bacteriostatic water for laboratory handling and keep the reconstituted solution refrigerated, using it within the appropriate window. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous agitation. Every Aura Labs batch ships with a third-party certificate of analysis confirming identity and purity above 99%.
Why researchers choose Aura Labs
Aura Labs supplies research peptides and compounds across Southeast Asia with third-party testing on every batch, a certificate of analysis available for each lot, and discreet, fast regional dispatch. Purity, accurate labelling and reproducible quality are the priorities researchers rely on for consistent results.
Disclaimer
This material is provided for laboratory and research use only. It is not a drug, supplement, cosmetic or food, and is not intended for human or animal consumption or for any diagnostic or therapeutic use. All information here is for educational purposes and describes preclinical research only.
