Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for central nervous system (CNS) drugs. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in constructing complex piperidine-based molecules. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for creating protease inhibitors and receptor modulators. The Boc-protected amine and carboxylic acid functionality enable stepwise coupling reactions, facilitating solid-phase and solution-phase peptide-like synthesis. Also utilized in the preparation of drug candidates targeting neurological disorders due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.