Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds. Its structure supports the development of indole-based drugs, particularly in the creation of serotonin receptor ligands and anticancer agents. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki and Heck reactions, to build complex indole derivatives for medicinal chemistry research. Also utilized in the synthesis of natural product analogs and functional materials due to its reactive iodine moiety and stable aromatic framework.