This compound is primarily utilized in the synthesis of modified nucleosides, which are crucial in the development of oligonucleotides for research and therapeutic purposes. It serves as a protected form of cytidine, where the tert-butyldimethylsilyl group safeguards the 2'-hydroxyl position, and the acetyl group protects the N4 position during chemical reactions. This protection is essential in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, enabling the precise construction of RNA sequences. Additionally, it finds application in the study of RNA structure and function, as well as in the development of RNA-based therapeutics, such as siRNA and mRNA vaccines, where modified nucleosides enhance stability and efficacy.