Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent dyes, particularly for bioimaging applications. Its strong electron-withdrawing cyano and carboxylic acid groups, combined with the electron-donating dimethylamino group, create a push-pull system ideal for intramolecular charge transfer. This makes it valuable in developing dyes with high sensitivity and selectivity for cellular imaging, tumor detection, and monitoring biological processes in real time. Also employed in the preparation of nonlinear optical materials and in dye-sensitized solar cells due to its favorable photophysical properties.