Used primarily in scientific research as a neurotoxin to model neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It induces motor neuron degeneration in experimental animals, helping researchers study disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions. Also investigated for its role in lathyrism, a neurological disorder linked to consumption of certain legumes. Its selective toxicity to neurons makes it a valuable tool in neuroscience for understanding excitotoxicity and amino acid metabolism in the central nervous system.