3-Cyano-3-phenylpropanoic acid is primarily used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for the production of various pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its structure, featuring both a cyano group and a carboxylic acid, makes it a versatile building block in the synthesis of complex molecules. It is often employed in the preparation of compounds with potential biological activity, such as inhibitors or modulators of enzymes and receptors. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, which are widely used in medicinal chemistry. The compound’s reactivity allows for further functionalization, enabling the creation of diverse chemical entities for research and development purposes.