This compound is primarily utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs. Its structure, featuring both amino and hydroxyl groups, makes it valuable for constructing complex molecules, particularly in the development of antibiotics and antiviral medications. It is often employed in the production of chiral compounds, where its stereochemistry plays a critical role in ensuring the efficacy and specificity of the final drug product. Additionally, it finds application in research settings for studying enzyme interactions and biochemical pathways due to its ability to mimic natural substrates.