Used as a key chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of active ingredients for drugs targeting the central nervous system and cardiovascular diseases. Its enantiomeric purity allows for selective reactions in asymmetric synthesis, making it valuable in creating single-enantiomer drugs. Also employed in the preparation of fine chemicals and specialty polymers where stereochemistry plays a critical role in material properties. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the manufacture of certain agrochemicals and optically active alcohols through regioselective ring-opening reactions.