Used as a key chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-hydroxy-gamma-butyric acid derivatives. It serves as an intermediate in the preparation of central nervous system agents, including muscle relaxants and antihypertensive drugs. Its chiral purity makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where stereochemistry is critical for biological activity. Also employed in the development of nootropic compounds and prodrugs targeting neurological disorders.