Used as a chiral intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of nootropic drugs such as piracetam and related racetams. Its pyrrolidone structure with a reactive ketone and ester group allows for selective chemical modifications, making it valuable in developing cognitive enhancers. Commonly employed in asymmetric synthesis due to its stereochemistry, enabling the creation of biologically active enantiomers. Also utilized in research for developing neuroprotective agents and compounds targeting neurological disorders.