Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of neuroactive drugs and nootropics. Its structure supports the formation of biologically active molecules targeting the central nervous system. Commonly employed in the preparation of cognition-enhancing agents and racetam-class derivatives. The tert-butyl carbamate group acts as a protecting group, enabling selective reactions at other functional sites during multi-step syntheses. Its stereochemistry is critical for achieving desired biological activity in final drug compounds.