Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of enzyme inhibitors and central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the formation of bioactive molecules due to the presence of both nitrile and carboxylic acid functional groups, which allow for diverse chemical modifications. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing heterocyclic compounds with potential therapeutic activity. Also utilized in research settings to design analogs for drug discovery programs targeting metabolic and neurological disorders.