Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of cyclopropane-containing compounds which are important in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its nitrile and ester functional groups allow for diverse transformations, such as hydrolysis, reduction, and cycloaddition reactions. Commonly employed in the development of biologically active molecules, including protease inhibitors and central nervous system agents. Also utilized in the synthesis of strained ring systems for medicinal chemistry research due to the unique reactivity of the cyclopropane moiety.