Z-4-fluoro-D-phenylalanine is primarily used in research and development, particularly in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. It serves as a valuable tool in studying protein synthesis and enzyme mechanisms due to its ability to mimic natural amino acids while introducing a fluorine atom, which can be tracked using techniques like NMR spectroscopy. This compound is also utilized in the development of fluorinated peptide analogs and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents, where the fluorine substitution facilitates structural studies and potential radiolabeling with isotopes like ¹⁸F for visualizing and diagnosing various diseases, including cancer. Additionally, it plays a role in investigating bacterial and fungal growth inhibition, contributing to the development of novel antimicrobial agents. Its unique properties make it a key component in advancing scientific understanding and medical applications.