Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound plays a role in the development of pharmaceuticals due to its functional groups that allow for derivatization. Its hydroxyl and amide moieties make it suitable for use in creating biologically active molecules, particularly in the design of enzyme inhibitors. It has also been explored in the synthesis of specialty polymers where hydrogen bonding contributes to material stability. Additionally, it finds limited use in research settings for modifying peptide structures to enhance metabolic stability.