Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds. Serves as a building block in the development of indole-based drugs, particularly in the design of serotonin receptor modulators and anti-inflammatory agents. Also employed in research related to tryptophan metabolism and analog synthesis. Its carboxylic acid functional group allows for easy derivatization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for creating amides, esters, and other conjugates.