Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, especially in the development of serotonin receptor modulators and other central nervous system agents. Its structure supports the construction of complex indole-based molecules found in bioactive compounds. Commonly employed in research settings for the preparation of analogs in medicinal chemistry programs targeting neurological disorders, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Also utilized in the creation of novel derivatives for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to the ease of functionalization at multiple sites on the indole core.