Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of kinase inhibitors, particularly those targeting cancer pathways. Its bromoisoquinoline core enables further functionalization through cross-coupling reactions, making it valuable in developing bioactive molecules. Also explored in the design of selective inhibitors for inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Commonly employed in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize potency and selectivity in drug candidates.