Navigating the procurement of metabolic research compounds requires rigorous analytical transparency and structural purity. AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) serves as a pivotal chemical probe in preclinical models investigating energy homeostasis and cellular metabolism. PX1 Research provides laboratories with fully verified, high-purity AICAR supported by comprehensive lot-specific documentation.
Navigating the procurement of metabolic research compounds requires rigorous analytical transparency and structural purity. AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) serves as a pivotal chemical probe in preclinical models investigating energy homeostasis and cellular metabolism. PX1 Research provides laboratories with fully verified, high-purity AICAR supported by comprehensive lot-specific documentation.
Researchers evaluating an AICAR shop for laboratory sourcing must prioritize verified analytical purity, lot-specific documentation, and strict quality controls. AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a synthetic AMPK agonist supplied as a high-purity research compound strictly intended for in vitro assays, cellular respiration experiments, and animal model research into metabolic pathways.
When procuring compounds for biochemical research, establishing absolute chemical identity and freedom from synthesis side-products is vital for experimental reproducibility. In consistent laboratory trials, variable purity profiles in raw reagents can skew enzymological assays, alter gene expression data, or introduce toxicity factors that compromise cell culture viability. Accessing reliable sourcing through an established supplier ensures that analytical reagents meet exact specifications before entering experimental workflows.
AICAR is an analog of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) that is intracellularly phosphorylated into its active form, 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide monophosphate (ZMP). ZMP binds to the gamma subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mimicking an elevated intracellular AMP-to-ATP ratio. This binding induces a conformational change that promotes phosphorylation at Threonine-172 on the alpha subunit by upstream kinases such as LKB1.
Through direct activation of the AMPK cascade, AICAR initiates downstream signal transduction involved in energy regulation. In vitro data indicate that this activation triggers a shift toward catabolic energy-generating pathways while simultaneously downregulating anabolic energy-consuming processes. Researchers utilizing research-grade AICAR investigate these downstream phosphorylation events to map signaling networks involved in cellular stress responses, glucose uptake mechanics, and fatty acid oxidation.
In preclinical metabolic research, AICAR is widely utilized to observe physiological responses to cellular energy stress without altering real-time ATP levels. Rodent models exposed to AICAR demonstrate upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. These findings suggest that artificial AMPK stimulation can induce transcription factors responsible for mitochondrial organelle expansion.
Additionally, cellular studies explore how AICAR administration influences glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation in skeletal muscle cultures, independent of insulin signaling pathways. Research published in metabolic pathways analysis demonstrates that AICAR-mediated AMPK phosphorylation reduces acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) activity, thereby decreasing malonyl-CoA concentrations and accelerating fatty acid oxidation within isolated mitochondria. These investigations remain instrumental in delineating non-insulin-dependent glucose utilization.
When structuring comparative metabolic studies, investigators frequently analyze AICAR alongside other small-molecule modulators targeting energy expenditure, nuclear receptors, and circadian signaling. A comprehensive overview of available agents across our all peptides catalog allows lab teams to select compounds tailored to specific metabolic axes.
Unlike direct nuclear receptor agonists such as GW-501516, which selectively target the PPARδ pathway, AICAR operates upstream via enzymatic phosphorylation of the AMPK complex. Similarly, while REV-ERB agonists like SR-9009 modulate metabolic gene transcription through circadian nuclear receptors, AICAR exerts direct influence over immediate cytosolic energy sensing. Mitochondrial-derived peptides such as MOTS-c present another distinct mechanism, functioning through nuclear translocation to regulate folate oxidation and metabolic adaptation. Evaluating these distinct biochemical probes enables researchers to map intersecting pathways governing cellular energetics.
A primary concern for laboratory buyers selecting an AICAR shop is guaranteeing compound purity and identity. PX1 Research enforces a multi-tiered quality control process for every batch produced. Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) is utilized to assess chemical purity, ensuring that the compound meets or exceeds the strict 98% threshold required for precise quantitative assays.
Mass Spectrometry (MS) is simultaneously performed to verify the exact molecular mass and chemical identity of the sample, eliminating any risk of regioisomers or residual synthesis reagents. Furthermore, because bacterial contamination can alter cellular immune responses in cell culture models, every lot undergoes chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) testing to confirm endotoxin levels remain below stringent laboratory thresholds. Every batch is certified by independent, ISO 17025-accredited third-party laboratories, with full Certificates of Analysis (COAs) downloadable for complete experimental traceability.
AICAR is supplied in a stable, lyophilized powder state to maximize shelf life and prevent premature chemical degradation. For in vitro and laboratory bench applications, proper reconstitution protocols are necessary to maintain chemical integrity and ensure consistent concentration gradients in culture media.
AICAR is readily soluble in aqueous buffers, including sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.2) and sterile water for injection, achieving solubility concentrations up to 50 mg/mL. For assays requiring high-concentration stock solutions, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) may be employed. Reconstitution should occur under sterile laminar flow hoods using calibrated volumetric equipment. Stock solutions should be aliquoted into single-use microcentrifuge tubes to prevent potential degradation caused by repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
To safeguard compound integrity over extended research timelines, strict storage parameters must be observed. In its dry, lyophilized state, AICAR should be stored at -20°C in a desiccated environment protected from direct light exposure. Under these conditions, the compound remains stable for up to 24 months without measurable loss of activity or chemical breakdown.
Once reconstituted into aqueous solutions, AICAR exhibits optimal stability when stored at -80°C for long-term hold, or -20°C for short-term experimentation (up to 30 days). Working solutions maintained at 2°C to 8°C should be utilized within 24 to 48 hours to minimize hydrolysis risks. Researchers should document lot numbers and preparation dates diligently, referencing our research library hub for detailed stability data and handling literature.
As a potent biochemical probe and AMPK agonist, AICAR must be handled strictly by qualified laboratory personnel adhering to standard Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) or Level 2 (BSL-2) protocols depending on the specific host system utilized. Personnel should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including nitrile gloves, lab coats, and safety eyewear, to prevent direct dermal contact or accidental inhalation of lyophilized dust.
Spills should be neutralized using absorbent materials and cleaned with deionized water followed by standard laboratory disinfectants. Waste disposal must comply with local, state, and institutional environmental health and safety regulations. AICAR is strictly designated for laboratory research use only and must never be administered to humans or animals outside approved preclinical experimental paradigms.
Selecting the right vendor for specialized reagents is critical for maintaining long-term research continuity. PX1 Research stands out as a premier domestic provider of research-grade biochemicals, operating under strict Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards within state-of-the-art USA facilities. Our direct control over domestic manufacturing minimizes supply chain disruptions and guarantees uncompromising lot-to-lot consistency.
Every product in our inventory undergoes independent verification before release, offering researchers full visibility into analytical testing results. Laboratories establishing routine procurement protocols or high-throughput screening projects can leverage our wholesale lab account portal to streamline bulk orders and institutional billing. Orders ship directly from our centralized distribution centers in California and Arizona, with same-day shipping available Monday through Friday for orders placed before cutoff times.
What is the certified purity standard of AICAR from PX1 Research?
PX1 Research provides AICAR with a guaranteed chemical purity threshold of ≥98%, as verified by lot-specific Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) testing.
How is AICAR tested for endotoxins prior to shipment?
Every lot of AICAR undergoes chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) testing at an independent ISO 17025-accredited laboratory to ensure endotoxin levels fall strictly below standard research limits (<0.1 EU/mg).
What is the recommended solvent for reconstituting AICAR for cell culture?
AICAR is highly water-soluble and can be reconstituted using sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or sterile water to concentrations up to 50 mg/mL. For specific non-aqueous stock preparations, DMSO may also be utilized.
How should reconstituted AICAR stock solutions be stored?
Reconstituted AICAR solutions should be divided into single-use aliquots and stored at -20°C or -80°C to prevent degradation from repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Liquid stocks held at 2–8°C should be used within 24 to 48 hours.
What primary receptor or kinase target does AICAR act upon?
AICAR acts as an intracellular precursor to ZMP, which directly binds to the gamma subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), stimulating its phosphorylation and regulating cellular energy sensing pathways.
Can AICAR be sourced in bulk quantities for large-scale institutional projects?
Yes, PX1 Research offers institutional pricing and custom bulk quantities for qualified research facilities via our wholesale lab account portal, backed by full lot traceability and domestic US manufacturing.
Where are PX1 Research compounds manufactured and dispatched from?
All PX1 Research compounds are manufactured in USA-based, GMP-compliant facilities and shipped directly from our primary fulfillment centers located in California and Arizona.
Is AICAR approved for human clinical use or diagnostic testing?
No. AICAR supplied by PX1 Research is strictly a synthesized research chemical intended exclusively for in vitro laboratory research and preclinical animal studies. It is not for human or veterinary use, therapy, or diagnostics.
All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment or consumption. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.