Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antiviral and antitumor agents. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where stereochemistry plays a critical role in drug efficacy. Commonly employed in the development of protease inhibitors due to its ability to mimic peptide bonds and interact with enzyme active sites. Also utilized in the preparation of beta-lactam antibiotics and other bioactive molecules requiring a constrained ring system.