This compound is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various therapeutic agents. Its structure is particularly valuable in the development of protease inhibitors, which are crucial in treating diseases like HIV and hepatitis C. The compound's chiral centers and functional groups make it a versatile building block for creating complex molecules with high specificity and efficacy. Additionally, it is employed in research settings to study enzyme mechanisms and drug interactions, aiding in the discovery of new medications.