Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral medications, particularly in the production of nucleoside analogs that inhibit viral replication. It plays a key role in drugs targeting RNA viruses by acting as a building block for modified nucleosides that interfere with viral polymerase enzymes. Commonly utilized in the development of treatments for hepatitis C and other viral infections due to its stereochemical configuration, which enhances selectivity and efficacy in mimicking natural nucleosides.