(R)-3-Amino-4-(tert-butoxy)butanoic acid is primarily utilized in the field of organic synthesis as a chiral building block. Its structure, featuring both an amino group and a tert-butoxy group, makes it a valuable intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds. It is often employed in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where stereochemistry plays a critical role in biological activity. Additionally, it is used in peptide synthesis and as a precursor for the preparation of complex molecules in medicinal chemistry. The tert-butoxy group provides steric protection, which can be advantageous in selective reactions, while the amino group allows for further functionalization, making it a versatile reagent in drug discovery and development processes.