Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and functional materials. Its nitro and carboxylic acid groups allow for further chemical modifications, making it suitable for developing bioactive compounds. The hydroxymethyl group enables coupling reactions or esterification, useful in prodrug design or polymer conjugation. Commonly applied in research settings for designing light-sensitive or redox-active molecules due to the nitroaromatic moiety. Also explored in the development of enzyme inhibitors and targeted therapeutics where controlled release or specific binding is required.