Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules and heterocyclic compounds. Its structure supports the creation of indole-based derivatives with potential antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer activities. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry research for constructing nitrogen-containing ring systems that enhance binding affinity to biological targets. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and dyes due to its electron-withdrawing substituents, which influence photophysical properties. Serves as a building block in the design of kinase inhibitors and serotonin receptor modulators.