Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates. Its structure allows for selective modifications in peptide-like frameworks, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating protease inhibitors and receptor modulators. Commonly employed in solid-phase and solution-phase organic synthesis due to the stability and ease of removal of the Cbz protecting group. Also utilized in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds for research in central nervous system agents and anti-inflammatory drugs.