tert-Butyl 6-hydroxy-1H-indole-1-carboxylate serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly for serotonin receptor modulators and central nervous system agents. The Boc-protected indole features a hydroxy group at the 6-position, enabling selective functionalization across the indole ring, including reactions at the phenolic hydroxy such as etherification or conjugation. This specificity enhances its value in medicinal chemistry for building complex bioactive molecules. It is commonly used in preparing tryptamine and tryptophan derivatives, advancing neuropharmacology and drug discovery research. Additionally, it finds applications in agrochemical synthesis and fluorescent dyes, leveraging the indole core's stability and reactivity.