Used as a key chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antiviral and antitumor agents. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable for creating enantiomerically pure compounds. Commonly employed in the preparation of β-hydroxy acids and derivatives through ring-opening reactions. Also utilized in the development of biodegradable polymers and as an intermediate in asymmetric synthesis. Its lactone structure allows for easy functionalization, enabling its use in natural product synthesis and medicinal chemistry.