Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of kinase inhibitors, particularly in the development of anticancer agents. Its structure allows for selective modification to target specific signaling pathways involved in tumor growth. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing drug candidates that inhibit protein kinases such as EGFR and BRAF. Also utilized in the preparation of nucleoside analogs with potential antiviral activity. Its benzyl-protected hydroxyl group enables controlled deprotection and further functionalization in multi-step synthetic routes.