S-Sulfo-L-cysteine is utilized in biochemical research as a precursor for studying sulfation processes in proteins and peptides. It plays a role in understanding post-translational modifications, particularly in the context of sulfated amino acids and their biological functions. This compound is also employed in the synthesis of sulfated glycoproteins and proteoglycans, which are essential for investigating cell signaling, extracellular matrix interactions, and tissue development. Additionally, it serves as a tool in enzymology to study the activity of sulfotransferases and other enzymes involved in sulfur metabolism. Its applications extend to the development of therapeutic agents targeting sulfation-related pathways in diseases such as cancer and inflammation.