This compound is primarily utilized in pharmaceutical research and development, particularly in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Its structure, featuring a benzyl ester and a methylsulfonyl group, makes it a valuable intermediate in the preparation of biologically active molecules. It is often employed in the design and production of protease inhibitors, which are critical in treating diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. Additionally, its chiral nature allows for the creation of enantiomerically pure compounds, enhancing the efficacy and specificity of therapeutic agents. The compound is also explored in medicinal chemistry for its potential role in targeting specific enzymes or receptors involved in inflammatory and neurological disorders.