Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, including quinolone antibiotics and other therapeutic agents featuring pyridine scaffolds. It serves as a bidentate ligand in coordination chemistry, forming stable complexes with transition metal ions for applications in catalysis, such as asymmetric synthesis. Its structural features, including the methyl-substituted pyridine ring and carboxylic acid group, make it valuable in developing agrochemicals like herbicides and pesticides, as well as functional materials. Additionally, it finds application in the preparation of pyridine-based polymers, chelating agents, and sensors due to its electron-donating and metal-binding properties.