Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of anticoagulants and other bioactive molecules. Its enantiomeric purity makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where it helps control stereochemistry in complex organic reactions. Commonly employed in the development of α-hydroxy acids and as an intermediate in the preparation of optically active compounds for medicinal chemistry. Also utilized in the manufacture of agrochemicals and specialty polymers requiring specific stereochemical configurations.