Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of nucleoside analogs, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its protected sugar structure allows selective modification at specific positions, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing complex carbohydrate-containing molecules. Commonly employed in glycosylation reactions to form C–N or C–O bonds in nucleoside frameworks. Also utilized in research settings for designing novel therapeutic compounds targeting RNA viruses and tumor cells.