Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, especially in the development of kinase inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex heterocyclic compounds. The aldehyde group enables Schiff base formation or reduction to amines, while the iodine atom facilitates cross-coupling reactions such as Suzuki or Heck reactions. The fluorine atoms enhance binding affinity and metabolic stability in final drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing lead compounds in oncology and inflammatory disease research.