Used in pharmaceutical research as an intermediate for synthesizing antiviral agents, particularly in the development of nucleoside analogs like stavudine for treating RNA viruses such as HIV. Its structure supports activity by mimicking natural nucleosides, interfering with viral replication through inhibition of reverse transcriptase. Commonly employed in prodrug strategies to improve bioavailability and cellular uptake. Also explored in targeted drug delivery systems due to its ester linkage, which can be cleaved by intracellular esterases.