Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules with potential neurological and anti-inflammatory effects. Its cyclic ether structure with a ketone and carboxylic acid functional group allows for selective chemical modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building complex molecular frameworks. Commonly employed in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and receptor modulators due to its ability to mimic peptide-like structures and enhance metabolic stability in drug candidates.