Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of chiral pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-blockers and other bioactive molecules where stereochemistry plays a critical role in drug efficacy. Its sulfonate group acts as a good leaving group, facilitating nucleophilic substitution reactions under mild conditions. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis to introduce functionalized side chains with high enantiomeric purity. Also utilized in the preparation of optically active epoxides and amino alcohols, which are key structural motifs in several therapeutic agents.