Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) drugs. Its structural motif is valuable in creating gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs, which are explored for anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and analgesic properties. The compound's stereochemistry enhances binding selectivity to neurotransmitter receptors, making it useful in designing drugs with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. It is also employed in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of amino acid derivatives targeting neurological disorders.