Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral agents, particularly in the development of nucleoside analogs. Its structure allows for selective modification of sugar and base moieties, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for designing compounds with enhanced stability and target specificity. Commonly employed in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis for antisense therapies and RNA interference applications. Also utilized in research settings to probe enzyme mechanisms involving nucleic acid metabolism due to its modified ribose and heterocyclic base mimicry.