Used in the synthesis of antiviral agents, particularly as an intermediate in the preparation of nucleoside analogs. It plays a key role in RNA research due to its ability to stabilize ribose conformation, making it valuable in the study of RNA structure and function. Also employed in the development of modified nucleotides for therapeutic oligonucleotides, including antisense and siRNA technologies. Its protected sugar moiety allows selective chemical modifications, enhancing its utility in medicinal chemistry and drug design.