Used in pharmaceutical research as an intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of xanthine derivatives with potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties. It serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry for designing analogs that target adenosine receptors. Also explored in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and other agents involved in cellular signaling pathways. Its structure supports derivatization for use in drug discovery programs aiming at central nervous system disorders and cancer therapeutics.