Used in the synthesis of chiral compounds, particularly in pharmaceutical research where enantiomeric purity is crucial. It serves as a building block for developing drugs, especially those targeting neurological and cardiovascular diseases. In organic chemistry, it acts as a reagent for asymmetric synthesis, aiding in the creation of complex molecules with high precision. Additionally, it is employed in the study of enzyme mechanisms and biochemical pathways, helping researchers understand interactions at the molecular level. Its fluorinated structure makes it valuable in the development of imaging agents for medical diagnostics, such as PET scans.