Used in the synthesis of complex indole alkaloids and pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of serotonin receptor modulators and anti-migraine agents. The Boc-protected amine and aldehyde functional group allow selective reactions in multi-step organic syntheses, making it valuable for constructing nitrogen-containing heterocycles. Its hydroxy group can be further functionalized for coupling reactions, enabling its use in medicinal chemistry for building bioactive molecules. Commonly employed in research settings for designing tryptamine and tryptophan derivatives.