Used in biochemical research as a metabolic intermediate and enzyme inhibitor, particularly in studies related to amino acid metabolism and biosynthesis pathways. It serves as a chiral building block for synthesizing more complex bioactive molecules, including pharmaceuticals targeting neurological and metabolic disorders. Also investigated for its role in modulating enzyme activity in microbial systems, making it useful in developing antimicrobial agents. Its structural specificity allows for selective interactions with enzymes involved in amino acid transformation, supporting its use in mechanistic studies and drug design.