Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of cyclopropane-containing pharmaceuticals and bioactive molecules. Its aldehyde functionality allows for further derivatization, such as condensation reactions or reduction to alcohol, enabling incorporation into more complex structures. The benzyl-protected hydroxymethyl group can be deprotected under mild conditions to release the free alcohol, making it valuable in stepwise synthesis where functional group compatibility is crucial. Commonly employed in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents due to the metabolic stability imparted by the cyclopropane ring.