Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and bioactive molecules, particularly in the development of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) due to its ability to chelate metal ions through the picolinic acid moiety. The aldehyde group allows for further functionalization via Schiff base reactions, making it valuable in constructing covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and sensor materials. Its bifunctional nature supports applications in catalysis and molecular recognition systems. Also employed in the design of fluorescent probes and imaging agents owing to its structural rigidity and derivatization potential.