Used in the synthesis of sialic acid derivatives, which play key roles in glycobiology research. It serves as a protected intermediate in the preparation of complex oligosaccharides found on cell surfaces. These oligosaccharides are involved in cellular recognition, immune response, and pathogen binding. The acetyl-protected form allows selective deprotection and coupling in chemical glycosylation reactions. Commonly applied in the development of glycoconjugate vaccines, diagnostic tools, and inhibitors of viral adhesion, especially in studies related to influenza and other sialic acid-dependent viruses.