Covering 2000. Previous review: Nat. Prod. Rep., 2001, 18, 334

This review covers the literature published during 2000 on the biosynthesis of compounds derived wholly or partly from intermediates on the shikimate pathway. Recent developments in the enzymology and genetics of the shikimate pathway are also described. Enzymes involved in the biogenetic pathway to the aromatic amino acids are covered initially followed by sections dedicated to metabolites derived in some part from intermediates on the pathway. These include pyrrolnitrin, violacein, indole-3-acetic acid, coumarins, lignans, lignin, tannins, melanin, flavanoids, ubiquinone, TOPA quinone, PQQ, and tropanes.