Used in pharmaceutical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of certain proteases involved in viral replication, particularly studied for its antiviral properties. It has shown activity in inhibiting enzymes critical for the life cycle of viruses such as hepatitis C and other RNA viruses. Its structure allows for high binding affinity to target proteins, making it a valuable scaffold in the development of new antiviral agents. Also investigated for improved bioavailability and metabolic stability in prodrug formulations.