Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of nicotinic receptor modulators. It serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry due to the steric protection offered by the tert-butyl groups, which enhances stability during multi-step reactions. Commonly employed in the preparation of bioactive molecules and heterocyclic compounds where controlled functionalization of the pyridine core is required. Also utilized in research settings for designing catalysts and ligands in asymmetric synthesis.