Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and antitumor agents. Its structure supports the creation of complex heterocyclic compounds that interact with biological targets in cancer therapy. Also employed in research settings for the preparation of fluorescent probes due to its electron-withdrawing nitro group and fluorine substitution, which enhance photostability and signal detection. Commonly utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies involving indole-based drug candidates.