Cordycepin 5′-triphosphate sodium salt is primarily used in biochemical research to study the mechanisms of RNA synthesis and processing. It acts as an analog of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), allowing scientists to investigate how cells incorporate modified nucleotides into RNA. This compound is particularly valuable in understanding the effects of chain termination in RNA elongation, as it can halt the addition of further nucleotides. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of antiviral and anticancer therapies, where its ability to interfere with RNA synthesis is explored for potential therapeutic applications. Researchers also employ it in enzymatic assays to study the activity of RNA polymerases and other nucleic acid-related enzymes.