Research today. Impact tomorrow.

25% Off the entire catalogue →

Same standards. Greater possibilities.

Research Use Only18+Not for Human ConsumptionReconstitution Materials Not Supplied
Peptide Database

Metabolic & GLP-1 research

AICAR (Acadesine): Research Overview

AMPK-activating compound studied as an exercise mimetic; banned in competitive sport.

Also known as acadesine · AICA ribonucleotide · Acadesine

Research use onlyStrongest evidence: animal studyReviewed
DatabaseReferences

What is AICAR?

AICAR is a cell-permeable nucleoside analog that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. Originally studied for cardiac ischemia protection, it gained attention as an 'exercise mimetic' due to its metabolic effects.

What is AICAR researched for?

  • Directly activates the master metabolic regulator through ZMP accumulation.
  • Increases fat burning through AMPK-mediated pathways.
  • Enhances glucose uptake independent of insulin in some tissues.
  • Animal studies showed increased running endurance; human data limited.
  • AMPK activation promotes new mitochondria formation over time.
  • Original clinical interest; may protect heart tissue during reduced blood flow.

How does AICAR work?

Once inside cells, AICAR is phosphorylated to ZMP, which mimics AMP and activates AMPK. This triggers metabolic pathways typically activated during exercise: increased glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis.

References

  1. AMPK and Exercise: Glucose Uptake and Insulin Sensitivity

    2012

    Review of AMPK role in exercise-induced metabolic adaptations and AICAR as pharmacological activator.

  2. AICAR Mouse Endurance Study

    2008

    Mice treated with AICAR showed 44% increase in running endurance without training.

    Animal study

  3. This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

  4. A comprehensive research database for peptides, therapies, and protocols. Information provided for educational purposes only.

  5. © 2026 Peptide Database. For educational and research purposes only.

Common questions

Does AICAR actually work as an 'exercise mimetic' in humans?

Animal studies show AICAR increased running endurance by 44% without training. However, this was mice, not humans. Humans have never been adequately tested for AICAR's endurance effects, so calling it an exercise mimetic is speculative. The compound does activate AMPK and increase fat oxidation, but real-world performance gains in people are unproven.

Is AICAR banned in sports and why?

Yes, AICAR is WADA prohibited. While it's not anabolic per se, it provides competitive advantage through enhanced metabolic efficiency and endurance. Athletes competing under WADA rules must avoid it entirely due to testing likelihood and strict liability regulations.

How does AICAR differ from GW501516 for metabolic enhancement?

AICAR activates AMPK, the master metabolic regulator, increasing fatty acid oxidation and glucose uptake. GW501516 is a PPARδ agonist with different downstream effects. They're often stacked because they target complementary pathways—AMPK plus PPARδ activation produces synergistic metabolic effects.