Used as an intermediate in peptide synthesis, particularly in the preparation of complex bioactive peptides. Its protected form allows selective coupling reactions without unwanted side-chain interactions. Commonly applied in pharmaceutical research for developing enzyme inhibitors and antimicrobial agents. Also utilized in studies involving protease activity due to its susceptibility to enzymatic cleavage. The methyl ester group facilitates cell membrane permeability in biological assays, enhancing its utility in cellular and biochemical research.