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AICAR
Definition
AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a small-molecule compound widely studied in biochemical and metabolic research for its role as an activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). In laboratory settings, AICAR is used to explore cellular energy balance, mitochondrial activity, and metabolic signaling pathways under controlled experimental conditions.
Chemical Structure
AICAR is a nucleotide analog with a molecular formula of C₉H₁₄N₄O₅. Structurally, it resembles an intermediate of purine biosynthesis and functions intracellularly by mimicking AMP, allowing it to interact with AMPK-related signaling pathways in research models.
FAQs
1. What is AICAR studied for in research?
AICAR is primarily studied for its ability to activate AMPK, a key regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. Researchers use AICAR to investigate how cells respond to energy stress, nutrient availability, and metabolic shifts in vitro.
2. Is AICAR a peptide?
No. AICAR is not a peptide; it is a small-molecule nucleotide analog. This distinction makes it useful in metabolic research where peptide-based signaling is not the focus.
3. Why is AMPK activation important in studies?
AMPK is considered a central metabolic sensor. By activating AMPK, AICAR allows researchers to model energy-regulation mechanisms involved in glucose metabolism, lipid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis.
4. Is AICAR used in clinical medicine?
AICAR sold by ChRIS Peptides is designated strictly for research use only and is not approved or intended for clinical or therapeutic use.
5. How does AICAR enter cells in laboratory studies?
In research environments, AICAR is taken up by cells and phosphorylated into an AMP-like compound, enabling it to participate in intracellular signaling studies.
6. Does AICAR affect mitochondrial research?
Yes. AICAR is frequently used in mitochondrial studies to examine how AMPK activation influences energy production and cellular adaptation to metabolic stress.
7. Is AICAR stable for laboratory storage?
Stability depends on storage conditions and experimental design. Researchers typically store AICAR according to standard laboratory compound handling protocols.
8. Why is AICAR popular in metabolic research?
Its direct and predictable interaction with AMPK makes AICAR a valuable reference compound for studying metabolic signaling pathways.
9. Does ChRIS Peptides provide usage protocols for AICAR?
ChRIS Peptides does not provide usage instructions or experimental protocols, as all products are supplied for independent research use only.
10. Can AICAR results vary between experiments?
Research outcomes involving AICAR vary based on cell type, experimental conditions, and study design.
