This chemical is primarily utilized in biochemical research and pharmaceutical development. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of modified sugars, which are essential for studying carbohydrate metabolism and enzyme mechanisms. Its methylsulfonyl group makes it a valuable precursor for creating glycosylation reagents, which are used in the production of glycoconjugates and glycoproteins. These compounds play a significant role in drug delivery systems, vaccine development, and the study of cell signaling pathways. Additionally, it is employed in the development of novel therapeutic agents targeting diseases related to carbohydrate metabolism, such as diabetes and certain cancers. Its stability and reactivity also make it useful in organic synthesis for constructing complex molecular structures.