Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and antiviral agents. Its chiral structure makes it valuable for constructing stereoselective drug molecules, especially in treatments targeting viral replication. Commonly employed in research settings for designing enzyme inhibitors due to the reactivity of the bromoacetyl group, which allows for further functionalization. Also utilized in the preparation of bioactive molecules where controlled stereochemistry is critical for activity.