Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where stereochemistry is critical for drug efficacy. Commonly employed in the development of sitagliptin and similar antidiabetic agents. Also utilized in research settings for exploring new bioactive molecules requiring pyrrolidine-based scaffolds.