Used as an intermediate in biochemical research, particularly in studies involving nucleotide metabolism and DNA synthesis pathways. It serves as a substrate in enzymatic assays to investigate the activity of kinases, phosphorylases, and other enzymes involved in carbohydrate and nucleoside metabolism. Frequently employed in laboratory settings to understand metabolic flux in pentose phosphate pathways and salvage pathways. Also utilized in the development and validation of analytical methods for detecting phosphorylated sugar intermediates in biological samples.