Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of linezolid, a synthetic antibiotic effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains such as MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). Its structure enables inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 23S ribosomal RNA of the 50S subunit, making it valuable in treating severe infections like pneumonia, skin infections, and bacteremia. Due to its stereochemistry, the (S)-enantiomer is crucial for maintaining high antibacterial activity and minimizing off-target effects.