Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of coumarin derivatives, which exhibit biological activities such as anticoagulant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It serves in pharmaceutical research for developing novel therapeutic agents. Also applied in the preparation of fluorescent dyes and sensors due to its ability to form conjugated systems useful in optoelectronic materials. Its reactive nitrile and ketone groups allow functionalization for use in organic synthesis and coordination chemistry with metal ions.