Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and antiretroviral drugs, particularly in the production of nucleoside analogs. Its protected hydroxyl groups and chiral structure make it valuable in pharmaceutical chemistry for constructing sugar moieties found in active drug compounds. Commonly employed in the development of medications targeting RNA and DNA viruses, including HIV and hepatitis. Also utilized in research settings for stereoselective synthesis where precise configuration is critical for biological activity.