Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of β-lactam antibiotics, particularly in the production of penems and carbapenems. Its structure allows for functionalization at the 4-position, enabling the development of novel antimicrobial agents with broad-spectrum activity. The acetoxy group acts as a leaving group in nucleophilic substitution reactions, facilitating the introduction of various side chains to optimize biological activity and pharmacokinetic properties. Widely employed in pharmaceutical research for developing antibiotics resistant to β-lactamase degradation.