Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing nitrogen-containing heterocycles. Commonly employed in research settings to introduce the azetidine ring, which can enhance metabolic stability and influence the conformation of drug-like molecules. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors and receptor modulators due to its favorable steric and electronic properties.