Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry for constructing heterocyclic compounds. Its aldehyde and ester functionality allows for versatile reactivity, including nucleophilic addition and condensation reactions. Commonly employed in the preparation of gamma-keto acids and derivatives used in drug development. Also utilized in the synthesis of agrochemicals and fine chemicals due to its ability to serve as a building block for carbon-chain elongation and ring formation.