This chemical is primarily utilized in biochemical research and pharmaceutical development due to its structural similarity to purine derivatives, which are fundamental components of DNA and RNA. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of nucleoside analogs, which are crucial for developing antiviral and anticancer drugs. Its nitro group enhances reactivity, making it valuable in organic synthesis for creating modified nucleosides. Additionally, it is employed in studies exploring enzyme inhibition, particularly targeting enzymes involved in nucleotide metabolism, which can provide insights into therapeutic strategies for diseases like cancer and viral infections.