Used as a key reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of functionalized olefins through the Julia olefination reaction. It serves as a sulfone component that couples with aldehydes or ketones to form alkenes with high stereoselectivity. This transformation is valuable in the synthesis of complex natural products and pharmaceuticals where precise control over double bond geometry is required. The methylthiomethyl group acts as a good leaving group after activation, facilitating carbon–carbon bond formation. Its stability under various reaction conditions and ease of handling make it a preferred choice in multi-step synthetic routes.