Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of quinolone-based antibacterial agents. Its structure allows for further functionalization at the 6-position due to the iodine atom, enabling coupling reactions such as Suzuki or Heck reactions to introduce aromatic or heteroaromatic groups. The ester and ketone functionalities provide sites for nucleophilic attack or reduction, making it valuable in constructing more complex quinolone derivatives with potential antimicrobial, antiviral, or anticancer activity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry research for developing new fluoroquinolone analogs.