Used in biochemical research as a precursor or intermediate in the synthesis of peptides and modified amino acids. It plays a role in studies involving metabolic pathways, particularly those related to glutamine and acetylated amino acid derivatives. Its structure supports its use in enzyme assays and inhibition studies, especially with acyltransferases and amidases. Also employed in the development of pharmaceuticals targeting metabolic disorders and infectious diseases due to its mimicry of natural amino acid substrates.