The molecule is a derivative of L-gulonic acid having a keto group at the 3-position. It has a role as an Escherichia coli metabolite. It is a ketoaldonic acid and a hexonic acid. It derives from a L-gulonic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a 3-dehydro-L-gulonate.
(2S,4R,5S)-2,4,5,6-tetrahydroxy-3-oxohexanoic acid