Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly those targeting central nervous system disorders. Its structure, resembling natural substances that act on serotonin receptors, supports the development of agents with potential antidepressant and anxiolytic activities. Commonly employed in research settings for constructing complex indole-based alkaloids. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates due to its favorable stability and reactivity profile, allowing easy modification of functional groups to create diverse chemical libraries for biological activity screening.