Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Its hydroxyl and carboxylic acid functional groups allow for versatile chemical modifications, making it valuable in constructing complex molecules. Commonly employed in the development of central nervous system agents and anti-inflammatory drugs due to its ability to mimic structural motifs found in bioactive molecules. Also utilized in the synthesis of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis, aiding in the production of enantiomerically pure compounds.