AICAR

Compound Overview

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside) is a cell-permeable nucleoside. In experimental systems, it is metabolized to ZMP (AICAR monophosphate), an AMP analog that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Because AMPK functions as a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, AICAR is widely used as a pharmacological tool compound in metabolic research.

Research Background & Published Literature

AICAR is among the most frequently cited AMPK activators in published research, with thousands of studies using it as a tool compound. It has been applied in cell-culture and animal-model research involving fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, mitochondrial biogenesis, and exercise-mimetic signaling.

Researchers reviewing the literature around this compound can use the peer-reviewed resources below for additional context on mechanism of action, signaling pathways, and controlled laboratory research applications:

• Narkar et al. (2008) — Cell
• Merrill et al. (1997) — Am J Physiol

Storage, Handling & Stability Guidelines

For long-term stability, store lyophilized material at -20°C. After reconstitution with sterile diluent, keep the preparation refrigerated at 2–8°C and reduce freeze-thaw exposure by aliquoting working volumes according to your laboratory's standard operating procedures.

• Keep ambient-temperature handling time as short as practical to support compound integrity.
• Reseal vials promptly after each withdrawal to limit moisture exposure.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow institutional chemical safety protocols at all times.
• For traceability, label all aliquots with compound name, concentration, reconstitution date, and operator initials.

Lab Verification

Nexus maintains batch-level verification records for research compounds in the Lab Verified archive, including HPLC purity review and Mass Spectrometry identity confirmation where current lot data is available.