Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its carboxylic acid and ester functionalities allow for easy modification and coupling reactions, making it valuable in building complex molecules. Commonly employed in the synthesis of prodrugs due to the tert-butyl ester group, which can be cleaved under mild acidic conditions to release active compounds. Also utilized in polymer chemistry as a monomer or chain extender for biodegradable polyesters. Its stability and solubility profile support use in solution-phase synthesis and peptide mimetics.