Used in the synthesis of paclitaxel, a potent anticancer drug, 10-desacetyl paclitaxel serves as a key intermediate in pharmaceutical manufacturing. It is particularly valuable in semi-synthetic routes to produce paclitaxel when natural sources are limited. Due to its structural similarity, it can also be studied for potential biological activity in cancer cell lines, supporting research into new chemotherapy agents. Additionally, it is used in analytical standards for quality control in taxane-based drug formulations.