Used primarily in organic synthesis, this compound serves as a building block for pharmaceuticals and biologically active molecules. Its structure allows for the formation of heterocyclic compounds, making it valuable in the development of drugs, particularly in the design of enzyme inhibitors and antimicrobial agents. It also finds use in peptide chemistry and the preparation of specialty polymers due to its reactive amino and carboxyl groups. In research, it acts as a precursor in the synthesis of natural products and complex amines.