Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in pharmaceuticals where cyclobutane scaffolds are present. Its functional groups allow for further transformations, such as cross-coupling reactions via the bromine moiety or hydrolysis of the ester to access carboxylic acid derivatives. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for building constrained ring systems that enhance metabolic stability and selectivity in drug candidates. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral building blocks through asymmetric synthesis, taking advantage of the trans configuration to control stereochemistry in final products.