6-Aminoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug development. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various biologically active compounds, particularly those with potential therapeutic applications. Its quinoline core structure makes it valuable for designing molecules that interact with biological targets, such as enzymes or receptors. This compound is often explored in the development of antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory agents due to its ability to modulate specific biochemical pathways. Additionally, it is used in research to study the structure-activity relationships of quinoline derivatives, aiding in the optimization of drug candidates for improved efficacy and safety. It is also employed in the synthesis of fluorescent compounds for biological assays and disease diagnostics, as well as in the development of chemical sensors sensitive to environmental chemical changes.