Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of amino acids and heterocyclic compounds. Its aldehyde functionality, protected as a diethyl acetal, allows selective reactions in multi-step syntheses. It is also employed in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals where controlled release of the aldehyde group is required. The phthalimide moiety acts as a protecting group for amines, making this compound valuable in peptide synthesis and the construction of nitrogen-containing molecules.