Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of quinoline-based pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds. Its aldehyde and ester functional groups allow for versatile chemical transformations, such as condensation reactions, nucleophilic additions, and cyclizations, making it valuable in the development of medicinal agents, including potential antitumor, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory drugs. It is also employed in the synthesis of fluorescent dyes and coordination compounds due to its ability to chelate metal ions.