Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Its structure supports the formation of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) derivatives, which are important in neuropharmacology. Also employed in the preparation of prodrugs and chiral building blocks for synthetic routes requiring lactone or carboxylic acid functionalities. Shows potential in the design of enzyme inhibitors due to its ability to mimic natural substrates in metabolic pathways.