Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in pharmaceuticals targeting central nervous system disorders. Its structure supports the development of protease inhibitors and receptor modulators due to the presence of a stereogenic center and functional groups that enhance binding selectivity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates with improved metabolic stability and bioavailability. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis to introduce the phenyl-substituted amino acid motif into complex molecules.