Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of modified nucleosides for antiviral and anticancer research. Its acetylated sugar group enhances lipophilicity, improving cell membrane permeability during prodrug development. Commonly employed in the preparation of bioactive purine analogs that interfere with nucleic acid replication in viruses or tumor cells. Also utilized in oligonucleotide chemistry for the development of therapeutic RNA or DNA analogs with increased stability and target specificity.