Widely used in pharmaceutical synthesis, this compound serves as a key chiral building block for the preparation of biologically active molecules. Its Boc-protected amine and free carboxylic acid functionalities allow for selective coupling reactions, making it valuable in the development of peptidomimetics and enzyme inhibitors. The rigid cyclohexane scaffold with defined trans stereochemistry enhances structural control in drug design, particularly in CNS agents and protease inhibitors. It is also employed in solid-phase synthesis and combinatorial chemistry due to its stability and orthogonal protecting group compatibility.