Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of beta-blockers and other cardiovascular drugs. Its hydroxyl and carboxylic acid functional groups allow for further chemical modifications, enabling the construction of complex drug molecules. The Boc-protected amine group provides stability during synthesis and can be selectively deprotected to introduce amine-containing side chains. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis routes where stereochemistry is critical for biological activity.