Used as a key chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and antiviral agents. Its rigid azetidine core with defined stereochemistry allows for precise spatial orientation of functional groups, enhancing drug selectivity and potency. The hydroxymethyl groups serve as handles for further chemical modifications, enabling the attachment of various pharmacophores. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to its stability and compatibility with diverse reaction conditions.