This compound is primarily used in peptide synthesis as a protecting group for amino acids. It acts as an ester derivative, facilitating the formation of peptide bonds by protecting the carboxyl group of leucine during the synthesis process. Additionally, it is employed in biochemical research to study enzyme mechanisms, particularly those involving proteases and esterases, due to its ability to mimic natural substrates. Its utility in organic synthesis extends to the preparation of complex molecules where selective protection and deprotection of functional groups are required.