This chemical is primarily utilized in scientific research, particularly in the study of DNA synthesis and repair mechanisms. It acts as a deoxyuridine analog, allowing researchers to investigate the incorporation of modified nucleotides into DNA strands. This helps in understanding cellular responses to DNA damage and the efficiency of DNA repair pathways. Additionally, it is used in antiviral research to study its potential inhibitory effects on viral replication, particularly in DNA viruses. It has also been investigated for applications in chemotherapy to inhibit the growth of cancer cells due to its nucleoside analog structure. Its role in these studies provides valuable insights into the development of therapeutic strategies targeting DNA-related processes.