This chemical is primarily utilized in the field of organic synthesis and pharmaceutical research. It serves as a key intermediate in the development of various biologically active compounds, particularly those targeting enzyme inhibition. Its structure, featuring a nitro group and a nitrile functional group, makes it valuable for constructing complex molecules with potential therapeutic applications. Researchers often employ it in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, which are crucial in drug discovery for treating diseases such as cancer, inflammation, and microbial infections. Additionally, its reactivity allows for further functionalization, enabling the creation of diverse chemical libraries for high-throughput screening in medicinal chemistry.