Sodium 5-bromo-6-chloro-1H-indol-3-yl phosphate is primarily used in biochemical research as a substrate or intermediate in enzymatic assays. It plays a significant role in studying phosphatase activity, particularly in the detection and quantification of enzyme kinetics. This compound is also utilized in the development of fluorescence-based assays, where its breakdown products can be measured to assess enzyme function. Additionally, it finds application in the synthesis of more complex indole derivatives, which are valuable in pharmaceutical research for drug discovery and development. Its stability and reactivity make it a useful tool in exploring cellular signaling pathways and metabolic processes.