This compound is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry for the synthesis of nucleoside analogs. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of antiviral and anticancer agents. The structural features of the compound, including the chloro-purine moiety, make it valuable for developing drugs that target viral replication or cancer cell proliferation. Researchers often modify this compound to enhance its pharmacokinetic properties, such as bioavailability and metabolic stability, ensuring its efficacy in therapeutic applications. Additionally, it is employed in biochemical studies to investigate the mechanisms of action of nucleoside-based drugs, aiding in the discovery of new treatments for various diseases.