L-α-Hydroxyglutaric acid disodium salt is primarily used in biochemical and medical research. It serves as a key substrate in studies related to metabolic pathways, particularly those involving the Krebs cycle and its associated disorders. Researchers utilize it to investigate conditions like L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria, a rare metabolic disease, to better understand the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions. Additionally, it is employed in the development of diagnostic assays and tools for detecting metabolic abnormalities. In the field of enzymology, it acts as a reagent to study enzyme kinetics and specificity, particularly for enzymes like hydroxyacid-oxoacid transhydrogenase. Its role in these applications makes it a valuable compound in advancing scientific understanding of metabolic processes and related diseases.