Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis where stereochemistry is critical for biological activity. Also employed in the preparation of agrochemicals and fine chemicals requiring enantiomerically pure building blocks. Commonly utilized in research settings for developing novel bioactive compounds and in the optimization of catalytic processes for industrial applications.