Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of kinase inhibitors, particularly for targeting cancer-related proteins. Its nitrile group and heterocyclic structure make it valuable for developing compounds with high binding affinity to enzyme active sites. Also explored in the design of neuroprotective agents and anti-inflammatory drugs due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate cellular signaling pathways. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize drug candidates.