Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of bioactive compounds, particularly in the development of enzyme inhibitors. Shows potential in studies related to neurodegenerative diseases due to its structural similarity to proline-based scaffolds known for modulating protease activity. Also explored in the design of anti-inflammatory agents and receptor antagonists. Its rigid aromatic-pyrrolidone framework enhances binding selectivity in drug-receptor interactions, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for optimizing lead compounds.