Used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable for asymmetric synthesis, where control of molecular handedness is critical. Commonly employed in the development of biologically active compounds, including intermediates for antibiotics and antiviral agents. Also finds use in the synthesis of specialty polymers and ligands for catalysts. Due to its diol functionality, it can act as a precursor in cyclization and condensation reactions.