This compound is primarily used in organic synthesis as a protected amino acid derivative. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of peptides and other biologically active molecules. The tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) group protects the amino functionality during chemical reactions, allowing selective modifications to the ester group or other parts of the molecule. It is particularly valuable in medicinal chemistry for the development of pharmaceutical compounds, including drugs targeting neurological and metabolic disorders. Additionally, it finds application in the synthesis of chiral compounds, leveraging its phenyl group for stereochemical control in asymmetric synthesis.