Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of β-lactam antibiotics and other bioactive molecules. Its stereochemistry allows for selective reactions in asymmetric synthesis, making it valuable in creating enantiomerically pure drugs. Commonly employed in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and antiviral agents due to its structural compatibility with biological targets. Also utilized in the construction of complex heterocyclic systems in medicinal chemistry research.