Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, particularly in the production of advanced antimicrobial agents. Its structure allows for further functionalization at the 7-position, enabling the development of compounds with enhanced activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical research to build quinolone cores, which are critical for DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV inhibition. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize potency, spectrum, and pharmacokinetic properties of new antibiotic candidates.