Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of glycosides and glycoconjugates, particularly in pharmaceuticals and complex carbohydrate research. Its protected hydroxyl groups allow selective glycosylation reactions, making it valuable in the development of antibiotics, antiviral agents, and vaccine components. Commonly employed in the preparation of disaccharides and oligosaccharides where controlled stereochemistry is essential. Also utilized in enzymatic and biochemical studies involving glycosyltransferases and glycosidases.