SHIKIMIC Meaning and
Definition
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Shikimic refers to a compound that is derived from the shikimic acid pathway, a metabolic pathway present in bacteria, fungi, and plants. The term "shikimic" primarily relates to the chemical structure or properties associated with this compound.
Shikimic acid, from which shikimic is derived, is a cyclohexene compound consisting of a six-membered ring with adjoining carboxylic and hydroxyl functional groups. It serves as a crucial intermediate in the biosynthesis of several important aromatic compounds, including the amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. The shikimic acid pathway is essential in the synthesis of these aromatic compounds, as well as various secondary metabolites with biological significance, such as flavonoids, lignins, and alkaloids.
"Shikimic" can also refer to molecules or drugs that incorporate the shikimic acid structure or are derived from it. For instance, shikimic acid has become well-known due to its use as a starting material in the production of the antiviral drug oseltamivir (commonly known as Tamiflu). This compound is obtained from natural sources like Chinese star anise or through synthetic routes and is widely used in the treatment and prevention of influenza.
In summary, the term "shikimic" relates to the compound shikimic acid, its structural characteristics, its role in the shikimic acid pathway, and its applications in the production of various important compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry.
Etymology of SHIKIMIC
The word "shikimic" is derived from "shikimic acid", which is a compound found in a plant called Illicium verum, commonly known as star anise. The name "shikimic acid" originates from the scientific name of the plant, "Illicium shikimicum", which was used by Japanese chemist Nagai Nagayoshi when he first isolated the compound in 1885. The term "shikimic" itself comes from the Japanese word "shikimi", which refers to star anise.
