Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in pharmaceuticals targeting inflammatory and central nervous system disorders. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where stereochemistry plays a critical role in drug efficacy. The presence of reactive functional groups—bromine, hydroxyl, and nitrile—along with the trifluoromethyl group, allows for selective derivatization, enhances lipophilicity and molecular stability, and enables the construction of complex molecules. It is especially useful in the development of protease inhibitors and kinase modulators due to its ability to mimic peptide motifs and bind selectively to enzyme active sites.