Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and antitumor agents. Its cyclic structure and functional groups make it valuable for modifying molecular properties such as solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis to introduce stereochemical control in active pharmaceutical ingredients. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors and prodrugs due to its ability to mimic natural metabolites.