Used as an intermediate and amine protecting group (Boc) in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of drugs targeting neurological disorders and metabolic diseases. Its structure, featuring a tert-butyl carbamate attached to a 2-oxotetrahydrothiophen-3-yl scaffold with carbonyl and sulfur functionalities, supports the formation of heterocyclic structures common in bioactive molecules. The Boc group protects amines from unwanted reactions during synthesis and can be easily removed under mild acidic conditions, enabling precise control over bond formation. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for modifying peptide-like structures to enhance stability and bioavailability. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and enzyme modulators due to its ability to mimic transition states in catalytic reactions.