Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its functional groups allow for derivatization into cyclopentane-based structures, which are common in bioactive molecules. It is also employed in the development of specialty chemicals where a rigid cyclopentane backbone with nitrile and carboxylic acid functionalities is required. The compound can undergo decarboxylation or be converted to amides and esters to tailor its reactivity in multi-step syntheses.