Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. Its functional groups—aldehyde and carboxylic acid—allow for versatile chemical modifications, enabling the formation of complex molecular structures. Commonly employed in condensation reactions and cyclization processes to build heterocyclic compounds. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent dyes and sensors due to its ability to participate in Schiff base formation and metal coordination.