Used as a key intermediate in carbohydrate chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of complex oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates. Its protected hydroxyl groups allow selective reactions at specific positions, making it valuable in the preparation of glycosyl donors and acceptors. Commonly employed in the development of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologically active compounds where precise sugar linkage is required. Also utilized in enzymatic and mechanistic studies due to its stability and defined stereochemistry.