Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of macrocyclic compounds and functionalized aromatic frameworks. Its multiple reactive sites—aldehyde and hydroxyl groups—allow for selective derivatization, making it valuable in constructing ligands for metal coordination and in the development of porous organic materials like covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Also employed in the synthesis of sensors and molecular recognition systems due to its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions and hydrogen-bonding partners.