Uridine is widely used in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology as a key component in RNA synthesis. It plays a crucial role in the production of RNA molecules, making it essential for studying gene expression and RNA functions. In medicine, uridine is utilized as a supplement to support brain health and cognitive function, particularly in conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. It is also employed in research to investigate cellular metabolism and nucleotide biosynthesis. Additionally, uridine has applications in the development of antiviral and anticancer drugs, as it can influence the replication of certain viruses (including HIV) and the growth of cancer cells.