Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system agents and analgesic compounds. Its structure allows for the formation of bioactive molecules through modification of both the amino and carboxylic acid functional groups. Commonly employed in research settings for designing GABA analogs and studying receptor binding due to its aryl-substituted beta-amino acid framework. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and as a building block in medicinal chemistry for creating peptidomimetics with enhanced metabolic stability.