AICAR is a cell-permeable adenosine analog that is a selective activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in adipocytes and hepatocytes. The AMPK is a metabolic regulator that inhibits anabolic processes and is active when energy availability is reduced. AICAR is reported to promote osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and astroglial differentiation in neural stem cells.