Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates requiring stereoselective construction. Its structure supports the formation of pyrrolidine-based frameworks, which are common in neuroactive compounds and enzyme inhibitors. The nitro group allows for further functionalization, enabling coupling reactions or reduction to aniline derivatives for enhanced molecular diversity. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis routes where the S-configuration is critical for biological activity.