Used in the synthesis of antiviral agents, particularly as an intermediate in the preparation of nucleoside analogs. It plays a key role in the development of therapeutics targeting RNA viruses, including hepatitis C and other viral infections. The compound's structure allows for selective modification, enabling improved bioavailability and metabolic stability in final drug candidates. Its functional groups are tailored for coupling reactions in multi-step organic syntheses, especially in constructing modified nucleobases for prodrug strategies.