Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. It serves as a building block in the formation of heterocyclic compounds, including imidazoles and pyrazines, which are common structures in bioactive molecules. Its reactivity allows for selective transformations in multi-step syntheses, making it valuable in drug development and medicinal chemistry research. Additionally, it finds use in the study of glycation reactions due to its structural similarity to reactive carbonyl species involved in metabolic pathways.