Used in research to study cardiovascular and endothelial function due to its role as a structural analog of L-arginine. It influences nitric oxide synthesis and is investigated for potential links to heart disease, kidney function, and metabolic disorders. Also employed in biochemical assays to understand enzyme specificity, particularly with nitric oxide synthase and arginase pathways. Its presence in human plasma makes it a biomarker of interest in clinical studies related to stroke risk and renal health.