Uracil 1-β-D-arabinofuranoside is primarily utilized in the field of antiviral research and therapy. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral drugs, particularly those targeting herpes viruses. The compound is instrumental in the development of medications that inhibit viral replication by incorporating into viral DNA, thereby preventing further viral growth. Its application extends to the study of nucleoside analogs, which are crucial for designing treatments for viral infections. Additionally, it is used in biochemical research to understand the mechanisms of nucleoside metabolism and its role in cellular processes.