Used in biochemical research as an intermediate in the synthesis of melanin and other pigments. Serves as a substrate for studying enzyme activity, particularly tyrosinase and related oxidoreductases involved in amino acid metabolism. Also utilized in the development of assays for antioxidant activity due to its phenolic structure, which participates in free radical scavenging. Investigated for potential roles in neurodegenerative disease models owing to its structural similarity to tyrosine and dopa derivatives involved in neurotransmitter pathways.