Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active ingredients for central nervous system drugs and nootropics. Commonly employed in the preparation of pyrrolidine-based compounds that exhibit cognitive-enhancing or neuroprotective properties. Also utilized in research settings for the design of enzyme inhibitors and receptor ligands. Its ester functionality allows for easy modification in multi-step organic syntheses, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.