Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, particularly in the production of ciprofloxacin and related antimicrobial agents. Its structure allows for functionalization at multiple sites, enabling the development of derivatives with enhanced antibacterial activity. It is valuable in pharmaceutical research for optimizing quinolone-based drugs targeting Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria. Commonly employed in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) requiring potent DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV inhibition.