Primarily utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various antibiotics, particularly beta-lactams like ampicillin and amoxicillin. Its role is crucial in the formation of the side chain that enhances the antibacterial properties of these drugs. Additionally, it finds application in the production of chiral compounds, where its stereochemistry is advantageous for creating enantiomerically pure substances. This compound is also employed in research and development for studying enzyme mechanisms and peptide synthesis, owing to its stability and reactivity under controlled conditions.