Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its protected amine and carboxylate functional groups allow for selective peptide coupling, making it valuable in solid-phase and solution-phase peptide synthesis. Commonly employed in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors targeting diseases such as hypertension, viral infections (e.g., HIV), and cancer. The stereochemistry at the alpha position ensures high enantioselectivity in final active compounds, enhancing drug efficacy and reducing side effects.