Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its functional groups allow for selective modifications in peptide-based drug design. Commonly employed in solid-phase and solution-phase peptide synthesis due to the presence of orthogonal protecting groups. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors where the hydroxy and carboxylic acid moieties contribute to binding affinity. Suitable for research applications in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.