Isobutyryl coenzyme A lithium salt is primarily utilized in biochemical research and enzymatic studies. It serves as a crucial substrate in metabolic pathway investigations, particularly in the study of fatty acid biosynthesis and degradation. This compound is often employed in assays to understand the function and kinetics of enzymes like acyl-CoA dehydrogenases and thioesterases. Additionally, it plays a role in the production of biofuels and bioplastics, where it acts as a precursor in microbial fermentation processes. Its stability and solubility make it a preferred choice in laboratory settings for exploring cellular metabolism and energy production mechanisms.