Used primarily as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound plays a role in the preparation of complex molecules due to its α,β-unsaturated aldehyde structure with a hydroxyl group. Its electrophilic nature allows participation in conjugate addition reactions, making it valuable in pharmaceutical and agrochemical synthesis. It also serves as a model compound in studies of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in biological systems, mimicking reactive aldehydes formed in vivo during cell damage. Additionally, it has been employed in flavor and fragrance research owing to its potential to form heterocyclic compounds upon reaction with nitrogen or sulfur nucleophiles.