This chemical is primarily utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of drugs that target the central nervous system. Its structure allows it to act as a chiral building block, enabling the production of enantiomerically pure substances, which are crucial for effective and safe medications. Additionally, it finds application in the creation of specialty chemicals used in organic synthesis, where its unique properties facilitate the formation of complex molecules. In research, it serves as a reagent for studying biochemical pathways and developing new therapeutic agents.