Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-lactam antibiotics and other bioactive molecules. Its cyclic ether structure with a carboxylic acid group allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building complex organic frameworks. It is also employed in the development of chiral auxiliaries and catalysts due to its stereochemical properties. Additionally, it finds use in the preparation of polymers and specialty chemicals where controlled polarity and solubility are required.