Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and antitumor agents, particularly in the production of nucleoside analogs. Its cyclic acetal structure provides stability and selective reactivity, making it valuable in pharmaceutical chemistry for constructing sugar-like moieties. It is also employed in the development of prodrugs due to its biocompatibility and ability to modify solubility and bioavailability. Additionally, it finds use in the preparation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis.