AICAR – 50mg (3ml Pen)

AICAR occupies a particular place in metabolic research: it is less a candidate compound than a laboratory instrument. As one of the first widely available AMPK activators, it became the default tool for interrogating energy-sensing pathways, and much of what is understood about AMPK signalling was established using it. That tool status means the literature is broad and mechanistic rather than outcome-focused.

AICAR is an adenosine analogue that is taken up by cells and phosphorylated to ZMP, a compound structurally mimicking AMP. Research describes allosteric activation of AMP-activated protein kinase by ZMP, producing the downstream signature associated with cellular energy deficit: increased glucose uptake, stimulated fatty acid oxidation, and suppression of anabolic pathways including lipid and protein synthesis. Because ZMP mimics AMP rather than acting selectively, studies also document AMPK-independent effects, which is a recognised limitation of its use as a probe.

A large mechanistic literature built around the compound's use as an experimental AMPK activator, alongside preclinical work in metabolic and exercise physiology models.

AMPK pathway research

Foundational studies characterising energy-sensing signalling using AICAR as a probe.

Exercise physiology

Rodent work on endurance capacity and skeletal muscle adaptation.

Glucose metabolism

Research on muscle glucose uptake independent of insulin signalling.

Selectivity limitations

Studies documenting AMPK-independent effects attributable to ZMP accumulation.

Anti-doping context

This compound is listed by anti-doping authorities and detection methods are established.