This compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of macrocyclic chelating agents for medical imaging applications, such as MRI contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals. It is a partially protected derivative of 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA), featuring two free acetic acid groups at the 1 and 7 positions for initial metal ion coordination and two tert-butyl ester groups at the 4 and 10 positions to facilitate synthetic handling and selective functionalization. The structure enables stable complexation with lanthanide ions like gadolinium (Gd³⁺), which, after full deprotection, provides high thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness, minimizing free metal ion release and associated toxicity risks. This enhances MRI image clarity and diagnostic precision. In radiopharmaceuticals, it supports conjugation to targeting vectors for specific delivery of diagnostic or therapeutic radioisotopes, improving in vivo pharmacokinetics and biodistribution.