Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals targeting neurological and metabolic disorders. Its structure mimics natural amino acids, making it valuable in designing enzyme inhibitors and peptidomimetics. Commonly employed in research for creating beta-substituted unsaturated amino acid derivatives with potential antiviral or anticancer activity. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis due to its stereochemical purity, enabling precise control in constructing complex molecules.