This chemical is primarily used in the field of organic synthesis and pharmaceutical research. It serves as a crucial intermediate in the production of various alkaloid-based compounds, which are often explored for their potential therapeutic properties. Specifically, it is utilized in the development of drugs targeting malaria and other parasitic infections, owing to its structural similarity to quinine derivatives. Additionally, it finds application in asymmetric synthesis, where it acts as a chiral catalyst or resolving agent to produce enantiomerically pure compounds. Its role in research extends to studying molecular interactions and mechanisms in medicinal chemistry.