Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment. Its α,β-unsaturated carbonyl structure allows participation in Michael addition reactions, making it valuable in constructing complex organic molecules. Also employed in the preparation of bioactive compounds due to its ability to mimic aromatic acrylic scaffolds found in anti-inflammatory and antitumor agents. Commonly utilized in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.