It is characterized by multiple stereogenic centers and functional groups arrayed around a six-membered carbocyclic ring.

Aminoshikimic acid is also an alternative to shikimic acid as a starting material for the synthesis of neuraminidase inhibitors such as the antiinfluenza agent oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

[1] The first microbe-catalyzed syntheses of aminoshikimic acid were described by Guo and Frost in 2004.

[2] Aminoshikimic acid is an intriguing alternative to shikimic acid as a starting material for the synthesis of neuraminidase inhibitors such as the antiinfluenza agent oseltamivir.

[3] Aminoshikimic acid is also a versatile chiral starting material for the synthesis of new pharmaceuticals.