Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of indole-based drugs. Its structure supports the creation of complex heterocyclic systems found in serotonin receptor modulators and anticancer agents. Commonly employed in organic synthesis for constructing substituted indoles through cross-coupling or condensation reactions. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and sensors due to the inherent photophysical properties of the indole scaffold. Its aldehyde group allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for generating diverse compound libraries.