N-Acetyl-DL-norvaline is primarily used in biochemical research as a building block for peptide synthesis. It serves as a precursor in the preparation of modified peptides and proteins, aiding in the study of enzyme mechanisms and protein interactions. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of chiral catalysts and as a component in asymmetric synthesis to produce optically active compounds. Its application extends to medicinal chemistry, where it is employed in the design and synthesis of potential therapeutic agents, particularly in the exploration of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators.