Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of neuroactive drugs and enzyme inhibitors. Its strained cyclobutane ring and functional groups make it valuable for constructing complex organic molecules with specific stereochemistry. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for building beta-amino acid analogs and cyclic scaffolds that enhance metabolic stability and target binding affinity. Also utilized in the preparation of specialty agrochemicals and bioactive heterocycles.