Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly those targeting central nervous system disorders. Its rigid cyclobutane scaffold with defined stereochemistry makes it valuable for developing selective receptor modulators. Commonly employed in the preparation of potential antidepressants, anxiolytics, and neuropathic pain agents due to enhanced metabolic stability and improved binding affinity. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies involving phenyl-substituted amines.