Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other bioactive molecules. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing chiral building blocks for drug development. Commonly employed in the preparation of anticonvulsant and neuroprotective agents. Also utilized in organic synthesis for ring-opening and reduction reactions to generate functionalized esters and lactones.