AICAR

A cell-permeable nucleoside compound that is processed intracellularly to form a phosphorylated metabolite, which activates adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) without disrupting the cellular concentrations of ATP, ADP, or AMP. Also acts as a regulator of de novo purine synthesis. Stimulates glucose uptake in both perfused and isolated muscle. AICAr-stimulated glucose transport is not affected by Wortmannin (Cat. No. 681675), a PI-3K inhibitor. Shown to inhibit the synthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG), diacylglycerol (DAG), and phospholipid, probably as a result of AMPK activation and the subsequent inhibition of sn-glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) by AMPK. Also reported to inhibit Hsp90 chaperone function. Imparts protection against cell death induced by glucose deprivation, chemical hypoxia, and exposure to glutamate and amyloid β (Aβ) peptide.

A cell-permeable nucleoside compound whose phosphorylated metabolite activates adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acts as a regulator of de novo purine synthesis. Stimulates glucose uptake in perfused and isolated muscle. Offers protection against cell death induced by glucose deprivation, chemical hypoxia, and exposure to glutamate and Aβ peptide.

Cell permeable: yes

Primary Target
Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)

Product does not compete with ATP.

Reversible: no

Packaged under inert gas

Following reconstitution, aliquot and freeze (-20°C). Stock solutions are stable for up to 3 months at -20°C.

May require heating to 50°C to achieve complete solubilization in methanol.

Meli, M., et al. 2006. J. Med. Chem.in press.
Culmsee, C., et al. 2001. J. Mol. Neurosci.17, 45.
Muoio, D.M., et al. 1999. Biochem. J.338, 783.
Hayashi, T., et al. 1998. Diabetes47, 1369.
Corton, J.M., et al. 1995. Eur. J. Biochem.229, 558.

CALBIOCHEM is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Toxicity: Standard Handling (A)