Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its nitrile and ester functional groups allow for versatile transformations, such as reduction to form amino esters or extension of carbon chains. Commonly employed in the preparation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other bioactive molecules. Also utilized in the synthesis of specialty polymers and heterocyclic compounds due to its bifunctional reactivity.