Used in biochemical research as an intermediate in metabolic pathways, particularly in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids like isoleucine. It serves as a substrate for studying enzyme activities related to branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase complex, which plays a key role in mitochondrial energy metabolism. Also utilized in the development and validation of diagnostic assays for metabolic disorders such as maple syrup urine disease, where accumulation of such ketoacids leads to clinical symptoms. Its presence in biological samples helps researchers monitor metabolic flux and assess metabolic health in cellular and animal models.