5-Bromouridine is widely used in molecular biology and biochemistry research as a tool for studying RNA metabolism and structure. It is incorporated into RNA molecules to act as a label, allowing researchers to track RNA synthesis, processing, and degradation. This compound is particularly useful in techniques like pulse-chase experiments, where it helps visualize the dynamics of RNA turnover in cells. Additionally, 5-Bromouridine is employed in X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies to analyze RNA conformation and interactions, as its bromine atom provides a heavy atom marker for structural determination. It also serves as a substrate for studying the activity of enzymes involved in RNA modification and degradation pathways.