Used in organic synthesis as a chiral building block for pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of neuroactive compounds. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable for creating enantiomerically pure drugs. Commonly employed in the preparation of nootropic agents and cognitive enhancers. Also utilized in the synthesis of lactam-based peptidomimetics for drug design. Serves as an intermediate in the production of certain anticonvulsants and antiviral medications. Its hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups allow for diverse derivatization, enabling use in combinatorial chemistry and medicinal research.