(S)-2-Aminoheptanedioic acid, also known as L-α-aminoadipic acid, is utilized in neuroscience and biochemical research as a selective gliotoxin that primarily targets astrocytes (a type of glial cell). It enables the study of glial-neuronal interactions, synaptic transmission, and the supportive roles of astrocytes in brain function. Its specificity makes it valuable for investigating gliosis, neuroinflammation, and the contributions of glia to neurological conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in research on amino acid metabolism, including lysine biosynthesis pathways, and in models exploring glutamate transport and excitotoxicity.