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 pyrimidine-based drug candidates. It is also employed in agrochemical synthesis, contributing to the production of herbicides and plant growth regulators. The carboxylic acid group enables easy derivatization, facilitating the creation of amides, esters, and other functional derivatives for use in medicinal chemistry research.