Cytosine β-D-arabinofuranoside is primarily utilized in medical research and treatment, particularly in the field of oncology. It serves as a chemotherapeutic agent, effectively targeting and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. This compound is often employed in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other hematologic malignancies. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of DNA synthesis, which disrupts the replication process of rapidly dividing cancer cells. Additionally, it is used in laboratory settings to study cell cycle regulation and apoptosis, providing valuable insights into cancer biology and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.