What is AICAR?
AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a cell-permeable AMPK activator that mimics the metabolic effects of exercise. It has gained attention as a potential "exercise pill" due to its ability to activate the same cellular pathways as physical activity.
Mechanism
AMPK Activation
AICAR is converted to ZMP in cells, which activates AMPK:
- Enters cells
- Converted to ZMP (AMP analog)
- Activates AMPK
- Triggers exercise-like metabolic changes
Downstream Effects
- Increased glucose uptake
- Enhanced fat oxidation
- Improved mitochondrial biogenesis
- Exercise adaptation pathways
Research Applications
Exercise Mimetic
- Performance enhancement research
- Metabolic disease studies
- Obesity research
- Diabetes models
Medical Research
- Cardiac protection
- Metabolic disorders
- Cancer research (AMPK in tumor metabolism)
WADA Status
Prohibited:
- Banned since 2009
- Classified as metabolic modulator
- Detection methods available
Summary
AICAR offers a pharmacological approach to activating exercise pathways through AMPK, though banned in sports.
Key Points:
- Classification: AMPK activator
- Mechanism: ZMP conversion, AMPK activation
- Effect: Exercise mimetic
- Status: WADA prohibited