Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Serves as a building block in the preparation of indole-based derivatives with potential neuroactive, anti-inflammatory, or anticancer properties. Employed in research settings to develop fluorescent probes due to its inherent photophysical characteristics. Also utilized in the study of serotonin-related pathways, given its structural similarity to tryptophan and serotonin metabolites.