Used in pharmaceutical research as an intermediate for synthesizing central nervous system agents, particularly in the development of neuroactive compounds and receptor modulators. Shows relevance in the production of derivatives targeting neurological disorders such as epilepsy, depression, and neuropathic pain. Also employed in the synthesis of alkaloid-like structures due to its structural similarity to biologically active piperidine alkaloids. Its carboxylic acid functionality allows for easy derivatization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating amides, esters, and peptide-like structures with potential therapeutic activity.