Used as a biomarker in clinical diagnostics, particularly in the detection of metabolic disorders such as 2-methyl-3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (a disorder of isoleucine metabolism). It is excreted in urine during episodes of metabolic imbalance and helps in monitoring disease progression and response to treatment. Also utilized in research settings to study organic acid metabolism and enzyme deficiencies. Its presence in biological samples aids in understanding metabolic pathways involving branched-chain amino acids.