Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and anticancer agents, particularly in the development of modified nucleosides. It serves as a building block in medicinal chemistry for designing nucleoside analogs that interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in research focused on improving drug specificity and reducing side effects in chemotherapy and antiviral therapy. Also employed in biochemical studies to understand nucleotide metabolism and enzyme mechanisms involving DNA synthesis and repair.