Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds. Its α,β-unsaturated ester structure with a nitrile group enables participation in cycloaddition and nucleophilic addition reactions, making it valuable in constructing nitrogen-containing rings such as pyridines and pyrimidines. Also employed in the development of agrochemicals and functional materials due to its ability to undergo Michael additions and act as a building block in multicomponent reactions. Its conjugated system allows for use in research involving organic semiconductors and fluorescent dyes.