3-Aminoquinoline-2-carboxylic acid is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmacologically active compounds. Its quinoline core structure is often exploited for developing drugs with anti-malarial, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers modify its functional groups to enhance binding affinity and selectivity toward specific biological targets, such as enzymes or receptors. Additionally, it serves as a building block in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds, which are essential in drug discovery and development. Its applications also extend to material science, where it contributes to the synthesis of organic semiconductors and fluorescent dyes.