Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its cyclic structure and reactive carbonyl groups make it valuable for constructing complex molecules through ring-opening or substitution reactions. Commonly employed in the development of chiral auxiliaries and enantioselective synthesis, aiding in the control of stereochemistry during drug manufacturing. Also finds use in the synthesis of peptides and modified amino acids due to its structural similarity to oxazolidinone scaffolds known for biological activity.