Used in the synthesis of certain cephalosporin antibiotics, particularly as a key intermediate in creating beta-lactam antimicrobial agents. It plays a role in enhancing the side chain structure that improves antibiotic activity, especially against Gram-negative bacteria. Its structure supports binding to bacterial cell walls, increasing the effectiveness of the drug. Commonly found in pharmaceutical research for developing semi-synthetic antibiotics with improved stability and resistance to beta-lactamase enzymes.