This chemical is primarily used in the field of glycobiology and carbohydrate chemistry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of complex glycoconjugates and oligosaccharides. Its structure allows for selective manipulation of glycosidic bonds, making it valuable for constructing biologically relevant carbohydrate structures. It is often employed in the development of glycosylation reactions, where it serves as a protected glycosyl donor. This enables researchers to study and mimic natural glycosylation processes, which are crucial for understanding cell signaling, immune responses, and pathogen recognition. Additionally, it finds application in the preparation of glycopeptides and glycoproteins, which are essential for drug discovery and the development of therapeutic agents targeting diseases like cancer and infections.