Ivarah Labs AICAR 50mg – Research-Grade AMPK Activator

Research Compound Overview
AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside, also known as Acadesine) is a synthetic nucleoside analog widely used in laboratory research as a pharmacological tool to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). It is cell-permeable and serves as a valuable probe for metabolic regulation, signaling pathways, and biochemical processes.

Product Specifications

AMPK Mechanism of Action

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric serine/threonine kinase complex (α catalytic, β and γ regulatory subunits) that serves as the cell’s primary energy sensor. Full activation typically requires phosphorylation at Thr172 on the α subunit (primarily by LKB1) and allosteric regulation via the γ subunit.

AMPK Signaling Pathways

Once activated, AMPK shifts cellular metabolism from anabolic (energy-consuming) to catabolic (energy-producing) pathways to restore energy balance. It acts as a master regulator of metabolism under conditions of energy stress such as exercise, nutrient deprivation, or hypoxia.

Key Downstream Targets

• ACC (Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase): Inhibits fatty acid synthesis and promotes β-oxidation.
• mTORC1 pathway (via TSC2/Raptor): Suppresses protein synthesis and cell growth.
• GLUT4 & PFK2: Enhances glucose uptake and glycolysis.
• ULK1: Promotes autophagy and mitochondrial quality control.
• Glycogen Synthase: Inhibits glycogen synthesis.
• PGC-1α: Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis.

Other AMPK Activators in Research

Researchers often compare AICAR with other AMPK modulators:

A-769662 – Direct AMPK Activator

A-769662 is a potent, direct small-molecule AMPK activator (thienopyridone class) that binds at a distinct site from AMP/AICAR. It shows strong preference for β1-containing AMPK complexes and does not raise cellular AMP levels.

• Key Advantage: Higher selectivity and fewer off-target effects compared to indirect activators.
• Common Use: Isoform-specific studies, liver metabolism research, and synergy experiments with AICAR.
• Comparison with AICAR: While AICAR is an AMP mimetic (indirect), A-769662 directly activates AMPK, making it a complementary research tool.

Scientific Background & Research Applications

AICAR is widely used in laboratory models to study cellular energy regulation, metabolic adaptation, and AMPK-related pathways.

Key Areas of Laboratory Investigation

• Cellular energy homeostasis and glucose/fatty acid metabolism
• Autophagy and mitochondrial function
• Muscle and tissue models (atrophy, regeneration)
• Metabolic stress and hypoxia responses

Solubility & Reconstitution Instructions (Laboratory Best Practices)

• Solubility Profile: AICAR is generally soluble in water and aqueous buffers (e.g., PBS). However, high-concentration stock solutions (>50–100 mM) may require gentle warming or sonication. Avoid exceeding solubility limits to prevent precipitation.
• Recommended Solvent: Sterile bacteriostatic water or research-grade PBS.
• Procedure:
  1. Bring sealed vial to room temperature.
  2. Add solvent slowly along the vial wall.
  3. Gently swirl or use bath sonication until fully dissolved; avoid vigorous shaking.
  4. Aliquot immediately.
• Post-Reconstitution: Store aliquots at -20°C or -80°C to minimize freeze-thaw cycles.

Handling & Storage (Laboratory Best Practices)

• Lyophilized: -20°C or lower, protected from light and moisture.
• General: Follow institutional protocols; protect from heat and temperature fluctuations.

Quality Assurance & Transparency

Every batch is third-party tested for identity, purity, and quality.

Why Researchers Choose Ivarah Labs

• In-depth, reference-supported scientific context
• Transparent batch-specific third-party COAs
• High-purity, consistent research materials
• Focus on supporting advanced laboratory investigations