Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-blockers and other cardiovascular drugs. Its enantiomeric purity makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where it serves as a precursor or intermediate in creating optically active compounds. Also employed in the preparation of chiral ligands and catalysts for stereoselective reactions. Its hydroxyl groups allow for easy functionalization, enabling use in organic synthesis for fine chemicals and agrochemicals.