Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in pharmaceuticals targeting central nervous system disorders. Its fluorinated aromatic structure enhances binding affinity and metabolic stability, making it valuable in the development of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators. Commonly employed in the production of antiepileptic and antiviral agents due to its ability to mimic natural amino acids while resisting degradation. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship studies involving fluorinated analogs.