Used primarily in pharmaceutical research, this compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various bioactive molecules. It is particularly valuable in the development of drugs targeting the central nervous system, where its structural properties enable interactions with specific receptors. Additionally, it finds application in the study of enzyme inhibition and as a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis, aiding in the creation of enantiomerically pure compounds. Its furan ring structure also makes it relevant in the design of novel therapeutic agents with potential anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties.