Widely used as a tridentate ligand in coordination chemistry, this compound forms stable complexes with transition metals such as ruthenium, iron, and cobalt. These complexes are employed in catalytic reactions, including oxidation and C–H activation processes. Its rigid pyridine backbone and donor nitrogen atoms enhance selectivity and stability in catalytic systems. It is also utilized in the development of luminescent materials and sensors due to its ability to chelate metal ions that exhibit photophysical properties. Additionally, it serves as a building block in supramolecular chemistry for constructing metallo-receptors and molecular architectures.