Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It participates in condensation reactions to form heterocyclic compounds, which are key structures in many bioactive molecules. Also employed in the synthesis of flavor and fragrance compounds due to its keto acid functionality, enabling the formation of esters and other derivatives with aromatic properties. Its reactivity makes it suitable for use in peptide mimetic synthesis and in the development of enzyme inhibitors. In biochemistry, it serves as a key intermediate in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids like valine and is used in research on metabolic pathways, enzymatic assays, and disorders such as maple syrup urine disease.