Description of Shikimic Acid
Shikimic acid is a cyclohexene carboxylic acid originally isolated from I. religiosum. It decreases lipid droplet accumulation in HepG2 cells and 3T3-L1 adipocytes when used at a concentration of 80 µM, as well as increases the levels of phosphorylated AMPK and decreases the levels of MID1IP1 in HepG2 and 3T3-L1 adipocytes when used at 40 µM.
Shikimic acid, obtained from star anise present in its anionic form shikimate, is a cyclohexane carboxylic acid, a cyclohexene, and a cyclitol. The shikimic acid pathway is essentially used to synthesize basic amino acids by plants and lower organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae.
Specifications of Shikimic Acid
| Product Name |
Shikimic Acid |
| CAS Registry Number |
138-59-0 |
| Molecular Formula |
C7H10O5 |
| Molecular Weight |
174.15 g/mol |
| Purity |
95% |
| Appearance |
White solid |
| Melting point |
185°C |
| Shelf life |
2 years |
| Functions |
Induce remyelination, anti-inflammation, relieves pain. |
Applications of Shikimic Acid
Shikimic acid, in its naturally occurring form, plays a pivotal role in various biological processes and serves as a major biosynthetic precursor for essential amino acids, including phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. This inherent biochemical function positions shikimic acid at the forefront of plant metabolism, influencing the synthesis of a vast array of plant alkaloids. These alkaloids, with their diverse pharmacological properties, contribute significantly to the medicinal and therapeutic potential of various plant species.
Additionally, shikimic acid is a key participant in the intricate biosynthetic pathways leading to the formation of essential plant compounds. Its involvement in the biosynthesis of lignin, a complex polymer crucial for plant structure and support, underscores its role in shaping the physical properties of plant tissues. Furthermore, shikimic acid is integral to the production of flavonoids, a diverse class of secondary metabolites known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This multifaceted involvement in the synthesis of aromatic compounds showcases the broad impact of shikimic acid on the chemical composition and functional characteristics of plants.
Reference:
- Bohm, B.A. Shikimic Acid (3,4,5-Trihydroxy-1-cyclohexene-1-carboxylic Acid). Chem. Rev. 65(4), 435-466 (1965).
- Rawat, G., Tripathi, P., and Saxena, R.K. Expanding horizons of shikimic acid. Recent progress in production and its endless frontiers in application and market trends. Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 97(10), 4277-4287 (2013).
- Kim, M.J., Sim, D.Y., Lee, H.M., et al. Hypolipogenic effect of shikimic acid via inhibition of MID1IP1 and phosphorylation of AMPK/ACC. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 20(3), E582 (2019).
- Lu, F., Yin, D., Pu, Y., et al. Shikimic acid promotes oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and accelerates remyelination in mice. Neurosci. Bull. 35(3), 434-446 (2019 ).
