Used in peptide synthesis as a protected amino acid derivative, particularly in the preparation of modified bioactive peptides. The nitro group acts as an electron-withdrawing substituent, enabling studies on enzyme inhibition and structure-activity relationships. Commonly employed in research settings for synthesizing analogs of natural products and pharmaceuticals, especially where aromatic ring modifications are required. Its ester and hydrochloride form enhances solubility and stability during solid-phase or solution-phase coupling reactions. Also utilized as an intermediate in the development of protease inhibitors and receptor ligands.