This chemical is primarily utilized in the development of antiviral and anticancer drugs. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of nucleoside analogs, which are designed to inhibit the replication of viruses and the growth of cancer cells. Its modified structure, particularly the fluorine and chlorine substitutions, enhances its ability to interfere with viral and cellular enzymes, making it valuable in pharmaceutical research and drug discovery. Additionally, it is used in studies targeting RNA viruses, where its incorporation into viral RNA can disrupt viral replication processes.