This compound is primarily utilized in biochemical research, particularly in studies involving protein structure and function. It serves as a derivative of tryptophan, an essential amino acid, and is often used in enzymatic assays to investigate enzyme-substrate interactions. Its application extends to the synthesis of peptides and proteins, where it acts as a building block to incorporate specific structural features into larger molecules. Additionally, it is employed in the development of pharmaceutical compounds, especially those targeting neurological disorders, due to its role in modulating neurotransmitter pathways. Its stability and solubility make it a valuable reagent in laboratory settings for various analytical and synthetic procedures.