Indole-3-lactic acid plays a significant role in plant growth and development, particularly as a precursor to auxins, which are essential plant hormones. It is involved in regulating processes such as cell elongation, root initiation, and vascular tissue differentiation. In agriculture, it can be used to enhance crop yield and improve plant resilience to environmental stress. Additionally, it has potential applications in the production of biofertilizers and biostimulants, promoting sustainable farming practices. In the field of microbiology, it is studied for its role in microbial metabolism and interactions with plants, contributing to advancements in plant-microbe symbiosis research.