Used in pharmaceutical research as a chiral intermediate for synthesizing bioactive molecules, particularly those targeting hormonal (e.g., thyroid hormones) and catecholaminergic pathways related to neurotransmitter function. Its lipophilic octadecyl chain enhances bioavailability and blood-brain barrier penetration, supporting the development of compounds with high selectivity and binding affinity to specific receptors in the central nervous system. Commonly applied in the preparation of prodrugs and enzyme inhibitors, especially in studies related to dopamine synthesis, metabolic disorders, and signal transduction modulation. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis due to its stereochemical purity, enhancing the efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients.