Used as a synthetic intermediate in the preparation of sialic acid derivatives for research in glycobiology and antiviral drug development. It serves as a protected, activated form of sialic acid, enabling controlled glycosylation reactions in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Commonly employed in studies involving influenza virus inhibitors and cell surface receptor mimics due to its ability to mimic natural sialylated structures. Also utilized in enzymatic assays and the development of diagnostic tools targeting sialidases and sialyltransferases.