Shikimic Acid

Other names: Shikimic acid, 3,4,5-trihydroxy-1-cyclohexen-1-carboxylic acid

Shikimic acid, also known as 3,4,5-trihydroxy-1-cyclohexene-1-carboxylic acid, is an organic compound that has an important role in microbiology and the pharmaceutical industry. This important substance is a natural product formed in plants and microorganisms and this acid is a key component in the biosynthetic pathway of aromatic amino acids. Shikimic Acid, as shikimic acid is also referred to, is hydrosoluble and dissolves in water to form a crystalline powder.

Shikimic acid is an essential building block of some drugs that are key in fighting various diseases and viruses. The most important product in the manufacture of which shikimic acid is used is the antiviral drug Tamiflu, produced by the pharmaceutical company Roche. This drug is designed for the treatment of influenza A and B in adults, children and seniors over the age of 65. Shikimic acid is also an essential ingredient in a product called Oseltamivir, which is used in the treatment of influenza pandemics. In addition, this acid is important for the production of various aromatic compounds such as salicylates and coumarins.