Used primarily as a protected amino acid in peptide synthesis. The benzyloxycarbonyl (Cbz) group shields the amino functionality during coupling reactions, preventing unwanted side reactions. It is compatible with various solid-phase and solution-phase peptide assembly methods. The Cbz protecting group can be selectively removed under mild conditions, typically by catalytic hydrogenation or acid treatment, allowing stepwise construction of complex peptides. Commonly employed in the production of pharmaceutical intermediates and bioactive peptides.