Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its aldehyde functional group allows for easy modification, enabling the formation of more complex heterocyclic compounds. Commonly employed in the preparation of pyrimidine-based nucleoside analogs, which mimic natural nucleosides and interfere with viral replication or tumor growth. Also utilized in agrochemicals for the design of novel pesticides and herbicides due to its ability to enhance bioactivity. Serves as a building block in materials science for creating nitrogen-containing organic semiconductors and fluorescent dyes.