Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of organophosphorus compounds, particularly in the preparation of phosphorylated analogs for pharmaceutical and agrochemical applications. It serves in the development of kinase inhibitors and antiviral agents due to its structural similarity to phosphate esters found in biological systems. Also employed in the design of prodrugs, where the phosphonate group enhances bioavailability and metabolic stability. Its hydroxyl functionality allows for further chemical modifications, enabling tailored derivatization in medicinal chemistry research.