Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. Commonly employed in organic synthesis for creating pyridine-based derivatives, which are important in medicinal chemistry and agrochemical research. Also utilized in the preparation of ligands for catalytic reactions and in the design of fluorescent probes due to its electron-withdrawing nitro group and reactive aldehyde functionality.