Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment. Its structure allows for selective modification, making it valuable in creating potent bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing inhibitors targeting tyrosine kinases and other signaling proteins involved in tumor growth. Also utilized in research settings to develop new central nervous system agents due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Its carboxylic acid functionality enables easy derivatization into amides, esters, and other functional groups for structure-activity relationship studies.