Used as a key chiral intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral drugs, particularly in the production of nucleoside analogs. Its cyclopentene backbone with defined stereochemistry allows for selective coupling reactions, enabling the development of biologically active compounds. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical research for constructing modified nucleobases that target viral polymerases. Also utilized in the preparation of prodrugs due to the presence of amine and ester functionalities, which can be tailored for improved bioavailability and metabolic stability.