Used in radiopharmaceutical research, particularly in the development of imaging agents for positron emission tomography (PET). The iodine atom allows for easy radiolabeling with iodine-124 or iodine-131, making it valuable for tracking biological pathways and tumor targeting. Its acetylated form enhances stability and modulates solubility, improving bioavailability in vivo. Commonly explored in peptide-based tracers where precise molecular targeting is required, such as in neuroendocrine or cancer imaging studies.