Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral medications, particularly in the development of certain nucleoside analogs. Its structure supports the formation of biologically active compounds that target viral replication mechanisms. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical research for constructing chiral building blocks, it plays a role in optimizing drug potency and metabolic stability. Also utilized in the preparation of protease inhibitors, where the hydroxycyclopentyl moiety contributes to binding affinity with target enzymes.