Used in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, particularly those targeting neurological disorders. Acts as a key intermediate in the production of GABA analogs, which are important for treating conditions like epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety. Also employed in research to study neurotransmitter activity and receptor interactions in the central nervous system. Its chiral nature makes it valuable for creating enantiomerically pure drugs, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.