Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the creation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both amino and carboxylic acid functional groups, enabling peptide-like bonding. Commonly employed in research settings for designing analogs of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) to study neurological pathways and potential treatments for neurological disorders. Also utilized in the preparation of labeled compounds for metabolic studies and receptor binding assays.