Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of complex pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable in creating highly selective drug molecules, especially for antiviral therapies. Due to its functionalized backbone and chiral centers, it serves as a building block in peptidomimetic drugs, aiding in improved metabolic stability and target binding affinity. Commonly employed in research settings for designing enzyme inhibitors where precise molecular orientation is critical for activity.