Used as an intermediate and amine protecting group (Boc-protected cyclobutylamine) in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates. Its structure, featuring a tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) group on the nitrogen and a hydroxymethyl substituent on the cyclobutane ring, supports the protection of the amine during synthesis to prevent unwanted reactions, allows introduction of functional groups that enhance binding selectivity and metabolic stability, and enables easy deprotection. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing constrained ring systems, which can improve pharmacokinetic properties. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and central nervous system agents due to its favorable steric and electronic characteristics.