(S)-2-Aminooctanedioic acid is primarily utilized in the field of biochemistry and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various bioactive compounds and peptides. Its chiral nature makes it valuable in the production of enantiomerically pure drugs, particularly those targeting neurological and metabolic disorders. Additionally, it is employed in research for studying enzyme mechanisms and protein interactions due to its structural similarity to naturally occurring amino acids. In material science, it can be used to modify polymers, enhancing their biocompatibility and mechanical properties for medical applications.