Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the preparation of protease inhibitors and other biologically active peptides. Its protected amine and carboxylic acid functionalities allow for selective coupling reactions in multi-step organic syntheses. Commonly employed in the development of enzyme inhibitors where stereochemistry is critical for biological activity. Also utilized in solid-phase peptide synthesis and as an intermediate in the production of antihypertensive agents and antiviral drugs.