This compound is primarily used in peptide synthesis, where it serves as a protected form of phenylalanine. The Boc (tert-butoxycarbonyl) group protects the amino group during the synthesis process, preventing unwanted reactions. The 2,4-dichlorophenyl moiety can be incorporated into peptides to study their biological activity or to create analogs with specific properties, such as enhanced stability or receptor binding affinity. It is also utilized in medicinal chemistry research to develop peptide-based drugs, particularly for targeting specific enzymes or receptors. Additionally, it finds application in the development of antimicrobial peptides, where the chlorinated phenyl group can enhance interactions with microbial membranes.