Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, particularly in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs and other bioactive molecules. It serves as a building block in organic synthesis due to its reactive keto and ester functional groups, enabling ring formation and chain extension reactions. Also employed in the fragrance industry as a precursor for creating fruity and floral aroma compounds, leveraging its ester characteristics in synthetic routes. Its versatility makes it valuable in research laboratories for developing new therapeutic agents and specialty chemicals.