Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of antidiabetic drugs, particularly in the production of thiazolidinedione derivatives that act as insulin sensitizers. Its stereochemistry plays a critical role in enhancing drug efficacy and metabolic stability. Widely employed in pharmaceutical research for developing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma agonists. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis to introduce sulfur-containing heterocyclic frameworks in bioactive molecules.