Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of indole-based bioactive compounds. Shows potential in the development of serotonin receptor modulators due to the indole core structure, which is commonly found in neuroactive drugs. Also employed in the preparation of analogs for anticancer and anti-inflammatory agents. Its α,β-unsaturated ester moiety allows for Michael addition reactions, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building molecular complexity. Commonly used in lab-scale synthesis to explore structure-activity relationships in drug candidates.