Histidine methyl ester is L-Histidine derivative that used in organic synthesis. L-Histidine methyl ester dihydrochloride is used to prepare optically pure L-(+)-ergothioneine.

Methyl isocyanate (MIC) is a noxious industrial chemical used extensively in the production of carbamate pesticides. This compound is a respiratory toxicant. Recently published studies have shown that methyl isocyanate can lead to epigenetic alterations due to its strong binding with DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) which is responsible for maintenance of normal methylation, cell growth and survival in mammals.