Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of serotonin receptor modulators and other central nervous system agents. Its functional groups—bromine, hydroxymethyl, and protected indole nitrogen—allow selective cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Negishi couplings, enabling the construction of complex indole-based structures. The hydroxymethyl group can be further derivatized to esters, ethers, or aldehydes, expanding its utility in medicinal chemistry. Commonly employed in research settings for generating analogs in drug discovery programs targeting neurological disorders and inflammation.