Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment. The iodine at the 3-position enables selective cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Sonogashira couplings, to construct complex heterocyclic systems in bioactive molecules. The pyrazolo[4,3-b]pyridine core is valuable in medicinal chemistry for developing targeted therapies across oncology and other areas, including potential central nervous system agents, though final compounds determine blood-brain barrier permeability.