This chemical is primarily used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of peptide-based drugs. It serves as a protecting group for amines during organic synthesis, ensuring specific reactions occur at desired sites without interference. Its chiral nature makes it valuable in creating enantiomerically pure compounds, which are crucial for drugs with targeted biological activity. Additionally, it is employed in research settings to study enzyme inhibition and receptor binding, aiding in the discovery of new therapeutic agents. Its stability and ease of removal under mild conditions make it a preferred choice in complex organic transformations.