Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a key auxin-type plant hormone that regulates plant growth processes such as cell elongation, shoot formation, and root development. It serves as an important precursor in the biosynthetic pathway from tryptophan to IAA in certain plants. Additionally, it is utilized in plant biology research to understand hormone production mechanisms and plant responses to environmental stimuli. Due to its structural similarity to natural indole derivatives, it may also be employed in the development of auxin analogs and novel bioactive molecules for agricultural and pharmaceutical applications.