Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of antidiabetic drugs such as gliptins (e.g., saxagliptin). It serves as a building block for constructing heterocyclic compounds due to the reactivity of the acetyl and cyano groups. Also employed in agrochemicals for developing pesticides and herbicides. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in research and development of new bioactive molecules.