Azetidine-3-carbonitrile hydrochloride is primarily used in organic synthesis as a key intermediate for the development of various pharmaceuticals. Its unique structure, featuring a four-membered azetidine ring, makes it valuable in the design of bioactive molecules, particularly in the synthesis of compounds targeting neurological disorders and cancer. The nitrile group in the molecule allows for further functionalization, enabling the creation of diverse chemical entities. It is also employed in the preparation of peptidomimetics, which mimic peptides and are used in drug discovery to enhance stability and bioavailability. Additionally, this compound is utilized in research to study ring strain and reactivity in small heterocyclic systems, contributing to advancements in synthetic chemistry methodologies.