Used primarily in research settings for its immunosuppressive and antileukemic properties. It serves as a metabolic intermediate in purine metabolism studies and is investigated for its potential to inhibit nucleic acid synthesis in rapidly dividing cells. Commonly employed in biochemical assays to explore the mechanisms of purine analogs in cancer and autoimmune disease models. Also utilized in the development of prodrugs and enzyme-activated therapeutics due to its riboside structure, which allows targeted intracellular activation.