Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for central nervous system (CNS) agents. It serves as a building block in the preparation of selective receptor modulators, including serotonin and dopamine receptor ligands. Its structure facilitates the creation of more complex molecules with potential antipsychotic, antidepressant, or anxiolytic activity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry research for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies due to the presence of both electron-withdrawing nitro and fluorine groups, which influence binding affinity and metabolic stability. Also utilized in the preparation of fluorescent probes and labeled compounds for biochemical assays.