Used in biochemical research as a modified amino acid for studying enzyme activity and protein modification. Acts as a substrate analog in the investigation of acyltransferase enzymes, particularly those involved in post-translational modifications. Its butenoyl group mimics natural acyl modifications, making it useful in probing the specificity and mechanism of lysine acylating enzymes. Also employed in the development of inhibitors and activity-based probes for epigenetic research, especially in relation to histone-modifying enzymes.