Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of imidazole-based drugs with antimicrobial, antifungal, and anticancer properties. Its aldehyde functional group allows for easy modification, enabling the formation of Schiff bases or other derivatives that enhance biological activity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry research for constructing heterocyclic compounds with potential therapeutic effects. Also utilized in the preparation of ligands for metal-catalyzed reactions and in the design of enzyme inhibitors.