Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside, acadesine) is a cell-permeable nucleoside and one of the most widely used pharmacological tools for activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in laboratory research.
AICAR Structure and Identifiers
| Name | AICAR |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Acadesine; AICA riboside |
| CAS number | 2627-69-2 |
| PubChem CID | 17513 |
| Molecular formula | C9H14N4O5 |
| Molecular weight | ≈258.2 g/mol |
| Type | Nucleoside (not a peptide) |
| Form | White powder |
Mechanism in Cells
Inside cells AICAR is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase to ZMP, an AMP mimetic that binds the γ-subunit of AMPK and promotes its activation. ZMP is also an intermediate of de novo purine synthesis, so AICAR has AMPK-independent effects that researchers control for.
Published In-Vitro Research Areas
- AMPK signaling in hepatocytes, myotubes and adipocytes
- Glucose-uptake and fatty-acid-oxidation assays
- Comparison with MOTS-c, which raises endogenous AICAR levels
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of AICAR supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store sealed at −20 °C, dry and protected from light. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does AICAR become inside cells?
It is phosphorylated to ZMP (AICA ribotide), an AMP analog.
Is AICAR for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies AICAR for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Višnjić D, et al. AICAr, a Widely Used AMPK Activator with Important AMPK-Independent Effects: A Systematic Review. Cells. 2021;10(5). PubMed 34064363 · DOI
- Verma P, et al. Characterization of AICAR transformylase/IMP cyclohydrolase (ATIC) from Staphylococcus lugdunensis. FEBS J. 2017;284(24):4233-4261. PubMed 29063699 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
