Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antifungal medications, particularly azole antifungals that inhibit ergosterol biosynthesis in fungal cell membranes, causing leakage and damage that prevents fungal growth. Its fluorinated aromatic structure enhances bioavailability and binding affinity, making it valuable in pharmaceutical development. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules where amino acid scaffolds are required. Also utilized in research settings for designing enzyme inhibitors due to its ability to mimic natural amino acids while resisting metabolic degradation.