Used in peptide synthesis to create modified peptides with enhanced properties for research and pharmaceutical applications. It serves as a building block in the development of peptide-based drugs, particularly those targeting specific biological pathways or receptors. The methyl group on the phenyl ring can influence the peptide's interaction with biological targets, improving stability or binding affinity. It is also employed in studying enzyme-substrate interactions and designing inhibitors for therapeutic purposes. Additionally, it finds use in biochemical assays to explore protein folding and function.