Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, which are important in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Its structure allows for selective transformations to form active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in antidiabetic drugs. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing heterocyclic systems that enhance drug potency and metabolic stability. Also utilized in research for developing new analogs with improved pharmacokinetic profiles.