This compound is a key intermediate in the synthesis of anthracycline antitumor antibiotics used in cancer treatment, particularly for leukemia and lymphoma. The resulting antibiotics function by intercalating into DNA and inhibiting topoisomerase II, which prevents cancer cell replication and induces apoptosis. Due to their high potency, they are commonly incorporated into combination chemotherapy regimens. Their clinical use is constrained by potential cardiotoxicity, necessitating careful monitoring. This intermediate is also employed in research to investigate DNA damage, apoptosis, and related biochemical mechanisms in cell cultures.