Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and anticancer nucleoside analogs. Its protected hydroxyl groups allow selective reactions at specific sites on the purine ring, making it valuable in pharmaceutical research. Commonly employed in the preparation of modified nucleosides for drug development, especially in creating analogs that interfere with viral replication or tumor growth. Also utilized in the production of prodrugs where controlled activation is required. Its acetyl groups can be easily removed under mild conditions, enabling further functionalization in multi-step organic syntheses.