This compound is primarily used in organic synthesis as a building block for more complex molecules. Its structure, featuring both an amino group and a carboxylate ester, makes it versatile for creating cyclobutane derivatives, which are valuable in medicinal chemistry. It can serve as an intermediate in the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of compounds with potential biological activity. The cis-configuration of the substituents on the cyclobutane ring can influence the stereochemistry of the final product, which is crucial for drug design. Additionally, it may be utilized in research to study ring strain and reactivity in cyclobutane systems, aiding in the exploration of new chemical reactions and pathways.