Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Its ester groups allow for selective reactions, making it valuable in constructing complex molecules such as neuroactive agents and metabolic analogs. Commonly employed in research settings to develop enzyme inhibitors or probes for studying metabolic pathways, especially those related to glutaric acid metabolism. Its stability and reactivity profile support use in multi-step synthesis where controlled functional group transformations are required.