Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and antitumor agents, particularly in the preparation of nucleoside analogs. Its rigid cyclic structure helps mimic sugar moieties in nucleosides, enhancing stability and biological activity. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for modifying nucleic acid components to improve resistance to enzymatic degradation. Also utilized in the development of prodrugs and in asymmetric synthesis due to its chiral backbone.