Used in pharmaceutical research as a synthetic intermediate for developing anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. Shows potential in inhibiting specific enzymes involved in tumor growth and cellular proliferation. Also utilized in the study of structure-activity relationships for α,β-unsaturated carbonyl systems due to its conjugated double bond and methoxy substitution. Its naphthalene-based structure enhances lipophilicity, improving cell membrane permeability in drug design. Investigated for use in photodynamic therapy owing to its light-sensitive properties.