DL-alanine is an amino acid, a racemic compound of L- and D-alanine. DL-alanine, together with aqueous silver nitrate, is used for nanoparticle generation as a reducing agent and an end-sealing agent. DL-alanine can be used for the chelation of Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(11) and other transition metals. DL-alanine is a sweetener, placed in the same group as glycine and saccharin sodium. DL-alanine plays a key role in the glucose-alanine cycle between tissues and the liver.