Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a building block for α-substituted esters and nitrile-containing compounds, which are important in the development of active ingredients in crop protection agents. Also employed in polymer chemistry to modify resin properties and enhance reactivity in specialty monomers. Its cyano and ester functional groups allow for diverse chemical transformations, making it valuable in research and development of complex molecules.