Used primarily as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment. It serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry due to its structural similarity to purine bases, allowing it to interact with biological targets such as enzymes and receptors. Its carboxylic acid functionality enables easy derivatization, making it valuable for creating amide or ester derivatives in drug design. Also employed in research settings for developing novel bioactive molecules with potential anti-inflammatory, antiviral, or neuroprotective activities.