Used in pharmaceutical formulations as an intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral drugs. It plays a role in prodrug strategies, enhancing the bioavailability of nucleoside analogs. Commonly applied in treatments targeting viral replication, particularly in hepatitis B and HIV therapies. Its structure allows for improved cell membrane penetration, making it valuable in drug design for better intracellular delivery. Also investigated for use in cancer therapy due to its ability to modulate nucleotide metabolism.