Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, particularly in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs. Its nitrile and carboxylic acid functional groups allow for versatile chemical transformations, enabling the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) targeting neurological disorders. Also employed in the preparation of specialty polymers and as a building block in organic synthesis for introducing carboxyalkyl chains with functional group tolerance.