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also known as: 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide, AICA ribonucleotide, Acadesine, ZMP precursor
Half-life: ~4–6 hours
AICAR is a cell-permeable AMP analog that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) — the cell's master energy sensor. Often called an "exercise mimetic," it triggers many of the same cellular adaptations as aerobic training: increased fat oxidation, improved glucose uptake, mitochondrial biogenesis, and cardioprotection, without requiring physical activity.
Mechanism of Action
AICAR is converted intracellularly to ZMP (AICA ribonucleotide monophosphate), which mimics AMP and directly activates AMPK. AMPK activation upregulates GLUT4 translocation (glucose uptake), stimulates fatty acid oxidation, drives PGC-1α expression (mitochondrial biogenesis), suppresses NF-κB inflammatory signaling, and protects cardiac tissue from ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Narkar et al. (2008, Cell) demonstrated a 77% increase in running endurance in mice given AICAR + GW1516. AICAR alone increased endurance by ~44%. It is banned by WADA in competitive sports. Human clinical trials (Acadesine) have focused on cardiac surgery and CLL, with promising safety data.
Cardiogen supports cardiac gene expression; AICAR provides AMPK-mediated cardioprotection — complementary mechanisms for heart health.
SS-31 protects mitochondria from oxidative damage while AICAR drives mitochondrial biogenesis via PGC-1α — highly complementary.
MOTS-C and AICAR both activate AMPK via different upstream pathways — additive effect on metabolic rate and fat oxidation.
None listed.
AOD9604 mobilises stored fat; AICAR increases the rate at which mitochondria oxidise it — stack for maximised fat loss.
Both raise NAD+/AMPK signaling through different routes; stack with caution and monitor energy levels.
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Protect from light.
Reconstitution
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water.