3-Hydroxyglutaronitrile is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. It plays a crucial role in the production of statins, a class of drugs widely prescribed for lowering cholesterol levels. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of agrochemicals, contributing to the creation of pesticides and herbicides that enhance crop protection and yield. Its application extends to the field of organic synthesis, where it serves as a building block for complex molecules, enabling the production of specialized chemicals used in research and industrial processes.