Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of imidazole-containing bioactive molecules. Its aldehyde group allows for easy functionalization, enabling the formation of Schiff bases or further derivatization through nucleophilic addition. Commonly employed in the preparation of antifungal, antihypertensive, and anticancer agents due to the imidazole ring’s favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Also utilized in coordination chemistry as a ligand precursor for metal-organic frameworks and catalysts.