Original AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a synthetic nucleoside analog widely studied in preclinical research as a cell-permeable activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). PX1 Research provides high-purity original AICAR for strictly in vitro and laboratory experimental applications requiring verified chemical integrity and lot-to-lot consistency.
Original AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a synthetic nucleoside analog widely studied in preclinical research as a cell-permeable activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). PX1 Research provides high-purity original AICAR for strictly in vitro and laboratory experimental applications requiring verified chemical integrity and lot-to-lot consistency.
Original AICAR, chemically designated as 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribofuranoside (also known as acadesine or Z-riboside), is a synthetic nucleoside analog that functions as an intermediate in purine nucleotide biosynthesis. In biochemical and cellular research, original AICAR serves as an essential tool compound for investigating intracellular energy regulation. Upon entry into the cell via nucleoside transporters, original AICAR is phosphorylated by adenosine kinase into its active monophosphorylated form, ZMP (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide monophosphate).
Because ZMP structural traits closely mimic adenosine monophosphate (AMP), it binds directly to the allosteric regulation sites on the γ-subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This binding induces a conformational change that promotes phosphorylation of the catalytic α-subunit at Thr-172 by upstream kinases such as LKB1. Researchers utilize this compound in laboratory research to stimulate cellular energy-sensing machinery without altering the physiological ATP-to-ADP ratio, providing an isolated model for analyzing metabolic signaling cascades.
In vitro data indicate that activation of AMPK by original AICAR initiates a cascade of downstream phosphorylation events that pivot cellular metabolism from anabolic (energy-consuming) to catabolic (energy-generating) pathways. When AMPK is activated by ZMP, it phosphorylates key metabolic enzymes, including Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase (ACC) and Hydroxy-Methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase. In skeletal muscle and hepatocyte cell cultures, phosphorylation of ACC inhibits de novo lipogenesis while simultaneously upregulating fatty acid oxidation through the disinhibition of Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1).
Preclinical studies suggest that original AICAR also modulates carbohydrate metabolism by stimulating glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to the plasma membrane independent of insulin signaling pathways. Additionally, prolonged activation of AMPK in cell models has been observed to enhance peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) expression, driving mitochondrial biogenesis and gene expression programs associated with oxidative phosphorylation. Researchers across our all-peptides catalog frequently utilize AICAR to map metabolic fluxes, mitochondrial dynamics, and metabolic adaptation mechanisms in vitro.
When evaluating a reliable AICAR shop or vendor for institutional procurement, principal investigators and laboratory managers must prioritize analytical rigor, manufacturing standards, and supply chain transparency. Research outcomes depend entirely on compound purity, as trace organic impurities or heavy metal contaminants can skew enzymatic assays, alter cell viability, or yield false-positive experimental results.
PX1 Research maintains strict quality control measures to ensure that every lot of original AICAR fulfills exact scientific standards. Key operational criteria to demand from any vendor include:
• Third-Party COA per Lot: Full transparency requires independent laboratory testing for every synthesis lot, accessible via a detailed Certificate of Analysis. • HPLC & MS Purity Verification: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) combined with Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm identity, molecular weight, and purity levels exceeding 98%. • Endotoxin Testing: Quantitative Chromogenic LAL assays to ensure endotoxin levels remain below strict threshold limits (<0.01 EU/mg) for sensitive cell culture assays. • USA Manufacturing & Compliance: Synthesis in GMP-compliant facilities adhering to ISO 17025 testing protocols. • Lot Traceability & Same-Day Logistics: Full chain-of-custody tracking with same-day shipping (Monday–Friday) directly from facilities in California and Arizona to prevent transit delays.
When searching for AICAR liquid for sale, researchers should be aware of the critical stability differences between liquid solutions and solid lyophilized powders. While pre-dissolved liquid formulations may seem convenient for immediate benchtop work, small-molecule nucleosides in aqueous solution are highly susceptible to hydrolytic degradation, temperature-induced cleavage, and microbial growth over extended periods.
For optimal reproducibility, PX1 Research supplies original AICAR exclusively in a stabilized, high-purity lyophilized powder form. Lyophilization preserves the structural stability of the nucleoside matrix, eliminating premature degradation during transit and storage. Researchers can reconstitute the solid compound immediately prior to experimentation using specialized laboratory solvents or buffers such as sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) depending on specific assay parameters. Institutional buyers seeking bulk quantities for ongoing cellular studies can explore customized fulfillment options through our wholesale service hub.
In metabolic and endurance-related research, original AICAR is frequently studied alongside or compared against other small molecules and peptides targeting energetic pathways. Understanding how AICAR differs from related agents is essential for proper experimental design and pathway isolated testing.
While original AICAR acts directly as an AMP mimetic to stimulate AMPK, compounds like MOTS-c operate as mitochondrial-derived peptides that regulate nuclear gene expression and systemic insulin sensitivity. Conversely, small molecules such as GW501516 target the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor delta (PPARδ) nuclear receptor directly, promoting lipid oxidation through transcriptional activation rather than nucleotide sensing. Similarly, SR9009 targets Rev-ErbA alpha to modulate circadian rhythms and mitochondrial density. Reviewing these distinct molecular mechanisms within our research library hub allows scientists to select the appropriate compound or design orthogonal multi-compound assays.
Proper handling and storage protocols are vital to maintain the biochemical integrity of original AICAR in laboratory settings. Upon receipt of the lyophilized product from PX1 Research, vials should be stored immediately in a desiccated environment at -20°C or -80°C for long-term stability.
To prepare stock solutions for in vitro application, researchers should reconstitute the compound under sterile laminar flow conditions. Original AICAR is readily soluble in water (up to ~50 mg/mL) and PBS, as well as DMSO for organic assay systems. Once reconstituted, liquid aliquots should be divided into single-use volumes to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can compromise chemical integrity. Reconstituted aqueous solutions stored at -20°C should generally be utilized within 30 days. For comprehensive details on chemical handling and properties, consult the dedicated AICAR product page.
In modern cell biology, original AICAR remains an indispensable pharmacological tool for investigating cellular bioenergetics. Researchers employ AICAR in primary cell cultures, including human skeletal muscle cells (HSMCs), 3T3-L1 adipocytes, and primary hepatocytes, to examine the regulation of downstream metabolic enzymes.
Specific areas of in vitro research utilizing original AICAR include:
1. Autophagy Modulation: Studies investigating how AMPK-mediated phosphorylation of ULK1 initiates autophagosome formation during nutrient deprivation models. 2. Mitochondrial Dynamics: In vitro assays evaluating fusion/fission events, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ROS regulation following acute or chronic AMPK stimulation. 3. Inflammatory Cascades: Preclinical research examining the cross-talk between AMPK activation and NF-κB suppression in endothelial and immune cell lines. 4. Substrate Utilization Assays: Measuring glucose uptake rates and fatty acid oxidation flux in cell cultures using radiolabeled or fluorescent tracer techniques.
At PX1 Research, scientific integrity drives our manufacturing and quality assurance frameworks. Every batch of original AICAR undergoes comprehensive analytical testing before distribution to research institutions. Our analytical workflow utilizes Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) to establish precise chemical purity percentages and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to verify exact molecular identity.
Furthermore, every lot undergoes strict quantitative endotoxin evaluation using Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) testing protocols to confirm suitability for cellular assays. Certificates of Analysis (COAs) containing full chromatograms and mass spectra are publicly available per lot. All products ship directly from our state-of-the-art facilities in California and Arizona with same-day dispatch for orders placed before cutoff times, ensuring your laboratory receives verified compounds without operational downtime.
What is original aicar and how does it function in research settings?
Original AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a synthetic nucleoside analog used in preclinical research to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Inside cells, it is phosphorylated into ZMP, an AMP mimetic that binds to AMPK and stimulates catabolic signaling pathways for in vitro analysis.
What criteria should be evaluated when selecting an aicar shop?
When choosing an AICAR shop for research supplies, select vendors that provide third-party Certificates of Analysis (COA) for every lot, RP-HPLC and mass spectrometry verification (>98% purity), quantitative LAL endotoxin testing, US manufacturing, and reliable climate-controlled shipping.
Why is lyophilized powder preferred over aicar liquid for sale?
Lyophilized powder is chemically superior to liquid formulations because nucleosides in aqueous solution degrade rapidly over time due to hydrolysis. Supplying original AICAR in lyophilized solid form ensures maximum chemical stability and extended shelf life until immediate laboratory reconstitution.
How should original AICAR be reconstituted for laboratory assays?
Original AICAR can be reconstituted in sterile water, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), or DMSO depending on assay requirements. Reconstitution should occur in a sterile environment, and stock solutions should be aliquoted and frozen at -20°C to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
What are the recommended storage temperatures for original AICAR?
Lyophilized original AICAR powder should be stored at -20°C or lower in a dry, desiccated environment. Reconstituted liquid stock solutions should be stored at -20°C or -80°C and used within a short period to prevent hydrolytic degradation.
How does original AICAR differ from small-molecule research compounds like GW501516 or SR9009?
Original AICAR acts as a direct enzymatic activator of AMPK by mimicking AMP. In contrast, GW501516 is a selective PPARδ receptor agonist, and SR9009 is a Rev-ErbA agonist. Each operates through distinct molecular targets and transcriptional signaling pathways.
Does PX1 Research conduct endotoxin testing on original AICAR lots?
Yes. Every lot of original AICAR from PX1 Research undergoes rigorous LAL endotoxin testing to confirm levels remain below strict laboratory safety standards (<0.01 EU/mg), ensuring compatibility with sensitive primary cell cultures.
What analytical methods are used to verify the purity of PX1 Research AICAR?
PX1 Research verifies compound purity using Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) for chromatographic purity (>98%) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm structural mass and molecular identity.
Are PX1 Research products intended for human or veterinary use?
No. All compounds supplied by PX1 Research, including original AICAR, are strictly intended for laboratory research and in vitro testing. They are not for human or veterinary consumption, medical treatment, or diagnostic applications.
Does PX1 Research provide bulk orders or laboratory wholesale accounts?
Yes. Qualified academic, clinical, and private research laboratories can set up wholesale accounts through our portal to secure institutional bulk pricing and specialized logistics for ongoing research programs.
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.