Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates. Its azetidine core provides structural rigidity, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for modulating the pharmacokinetic properties of new chemical entities. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and receptor modulators due to its ability to mimic peptide bonds and enhance metabolic stability. Also utilized in the construction of complex heterocyclic systems through functional group transformations of the hydroxymethyl moiety. The tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting group on the nitrogen facilitates selective synthesis and amine protection during reactions.