Widely used in pharmaceutical synthesis, this compound serves as a key chiral intermediate in the production of protease inhibitors, particularly for antiviral drugs. Its rigid bicyclic structure and multiple stereocenters make it ideal for designing enzyme inhibitors with high selectivity and potency. It is especially valuable in the development of medications targeting HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV), where precise 3D orientation of functional groups is critical for activity. The presence of protected functional groups allows for selective modifications, enabling efficient coupling in peptide-like frameworks. Its application extends to research settings for constructing complex molecules requiring stereochemical control.