Used primarily in biomedical research as a thymidine analog to study DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. It is incorporated into newly synthesized DNA, allowing researchers to track dividing cells through techniques like immunofluorescence or flow cytometry. This makes it valuable in cancer research, stem cell studies, and understanding cellular mechanisms in developmental biology. Additionally, it serves as a tool in antiviral research to investigate the replication of DNA viruses. Its applications are crucial for advancing insights into cell behavior and therapeutic development.