Used in research to study sulfur amino acid metabolism, particularly in the breakdown of cystathionine to cysteine, alpha-ketobutyrate, and ammonia. Plays a role in understanding metabolic disorders related to homocysteine and cysteine regulation. Also investigated for potential applications in developing antimicrobial agents, as some pathogens rely on this enzyme for survival. Used in enzyme assays and as a target in drug design for diseases involving metabolic imbalances.