Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of indole-based drugs with biological activity. Commonly employed in research for its role in forming heterocyclic compounds that exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Also utilized in the preparation of dyes and pigments due to its conjugated structure, which contributes to color development. Frequently applied in biochemical assays as a derivatization reagent for detecting amines and carbonyl compounds.