Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical agents, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment. Its structure allows for selective binding to enzyme active sites, making it valuable in designing drugs targeting tyrosine kinases involved in tumor growth. Also utilized in research for anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective compounds due to its ability to modulate cellular signaling pathways. Commonly modified at the amino and carboxylic acid groups to enhance bioavailability and target specificity in drug candidates.