Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical peptides, particularly in the production of serotonin receptor modulators and other neuroactive compounds. Its chiral center and protected amine group make it valuable for solid-phase peptide synthesis, where it helps maintain stereochemical integrity during coupling reactions. Commonly employed in the development of drugs targeting central nervous system disorders, including depression, anxiety, and migraine. The indole moiety allows for structural similarity to tryptophan, enabling integration into biologically active peptides with enhanced receptor binding affinity.