Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluorinated pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the formation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both aldehyde and carboxylic acid functional groups, enabling diverse chemical modifications. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing heterocyclic compounds with enhanced metabolic stability and binding affinity. Also utilized in the preparation of enzyme inhibitors where the trifluoromethyl group improves lipophilicity and bioavailability.