Used in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, particularly those targeting neurological disorders and pain management. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of GABA analogs, which are essential for developing medications that regulate neurotransmitter activity. Additionally, it is employed in organic synthesis to create peptides and other bioactive molecules. In research, it is utilized to study enzyme mechanisms and metabolic pathways, particularly those involving amino acids and their derivatives. Its role in biochemical studies helps advance understanding of cellular processes and potential therapeutic targets.