Used in organic synthesis as a building block for complex molecules, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds and pharmaceuticals. Its conjugated diene structure with an ester and ketone functional group makes it valuable in Diels-Alder reactions, where it acts as a dienophile or diene component to form cyclic frameworks. Commonly employed in the development of fine chemicals, flavors, and fragrances due to its reactive backbone and ability to undergo selective modifications. Also finds use in research settings for constructing natural product analogs and bioactive compounds.