Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral agents, particularly in the development of nucleoside analogs. Its iodo functional group allows for further coupling reactions, such as palladium-catalyzed cross-couplings, enabling the introduction of various substituents to modify biological activity. The protecting group enhances solubility and stability during solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, making it valuable in the preparation of modified RNA strands for research and therapeutic applications. Commonly employed in the production of labeled nucleotides for biochemical assays and probe development.