Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex organic molecules for drug discovery. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions and reductive amination processes to introduce aromatic and nitro-containing moieties. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and labeled compounds due to the presence of aldehyde and nitro groups that can be selectively modified.