Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of protease inhibitors such as certain antihypertensive and antiviral drugs. Its stereochemistry allows for selective binding in biological systems, making it valuable in asymmetric synthesis. Commonly employed in peptide mimetics and drug development where structural specificity is critical. The Boc-protected amine and carboxylic acid functionalities enable stepwise coupling reactions, facilitating its incorporation into complex molecules.