Used primarily in biochemical research, 3-Dehydroshikimic acid plays a crucial role in studying the shikimate pathway, which is essential for the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids in microorganisms and plants. It serves as an intermediate in metabolic studies, helping researchers understand enzyme mechanisms and metabolic fluxes. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of antimicrobial agents, as inhibiting the shikimate pathway can disrupt the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. Its application extends to genetic engineering, where it aids in modifying metabolic pathways to enhance the production of valuable compounds in engineered organisms. It is also relevant in pharmaceutical research, particularly in studies related to the production of shikimic acid, a key precursor for antiviral drugs like oseltamivir.