N-Formyl-L-alanine is primarily used in biochemical research and peptide synthesis. It serves as a protected form of L-alanine, where the formyl group shields the amino group during chemical reactions, preventing unwanted side reactions. This compound is particularly useful in the synthesis of complex peptides and proteins, where selective protection and deprotection of functional groups are essential. Additionally, it finds applications in studying enzyme mechanisms and protein interactions, as it can mimic specific amino acid structures in experimental setups. Its role in advancing peptide chemistry and molecular biology research makes it a valuable tool in laboratories focused on understanding and manipulating biological molecules.