Used as an intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex heterocyclic compounds for drug discovery. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions such as Suzuki or Buchwald-Hartwig aminations to introduce aryl or amine groups. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and ligands for receptor binding studies due to its rigid isoquinoline core and bromine handle for further modification.