Used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, particularly in the development of serotonin receptor modulators. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of bioactive indole derivatives, which are important in neuropharmacology. Its aldehyde functional group allows for easy modification through condensation or reduction reactions, enabling the creation of more complex heterocyclic compounds. Commonly employed in research settings for designing new psychotropic agents and studying central nervous system pathways.