DL-Alanyl-L-alanine is commonly used in biochemical research as a substrate for studying enzyme activity, particularly proteases and peptidases. It serves as a model compound to investigate the mechanisms of peptide bond hydrolysis and enzyme specificity. In the field of microbiology, it is utilized as a nutrient source in culture media to support the growth of certain microorganisms. Additionally, it finds application in peptide synthesis, where it acts as a building block for creating more complex peptide structures. Its role in studying amino acid metabolism and transport systems in cells also makes it valuable in physiological and pharmacological research.