Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and other biologically active compounds. Its functional groups—hydroxyl, carboxylic acid, and protected amine—make it valuable in peptide chemistry and asymmetric synthesis. Commonly employed in the preparation of beta-hydroxy amino acids, which are key structural motifs in various drugs, including antiviral and anticancer agents. The Cbz (benzyloxycarbonyl) protecting group allows for selective amine deprotection under mild conditions, enabling stepwise peptide chain assembly. Also utilized in the manufacture of enzyme inhibitors where precise stereochemistry is required for biological activity.