Used primarily in organic synthesis as a versatile intermediate for the preparation of various pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds. It serves as a key building block in the development of inhibitors, receptor antagonists, and other therapeutic agents. The Boc (tert-butoxycarbonyl) protecting group allows selective reactions at other functional sites, while the cyano and hydroxyl groups provide reactive handles for further chemical modifications. Its structural features make it valuable in constructing complex molecules, particularly in medicinal chemistry for drug discovery and development.