Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in developing drugs with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It plays a role in the preparation of biologically active molecules that mimic the effects of lipoic acid, supporting cellular energy production and protecting against oxidative stress. Also utilized in research settings to design novel compounds for metabolic and neurodegenerative disease studies. Its dithiolane ring structure enables redox activity, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating compounds that can regenerate endogenous antioxidants like glutathione.