Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of drugs targeting neurological disorders and inflammation. Its structure allows for easy modification, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating analogs with enhanced bioavailability and receptor selectivity. Also employed in the preparation of chelating agents due to the presence of both carboxylic acid and hydroxyl groups, which can bind metal ions effectively. Shows potential in the design of enzyme inhibitors, especially for enzymes involved in neurotransmitter regulation.