Used in organic synthesis as a key intermediate for the preparation of various heterocyclic compounds. It is particularly valuable in the development of pharmaceuticals, where it serves as a building block for drugs with potential antimicrobial, antifungal, and anticancer properties. Additionally, it is employed in the synthesis of organic dyes and pigments due to its ability to form complex structures with unique optical properties. Its nitro and aldehyde functional groups make it a versatile reagent for further chemical modifications.