This chemical is primarily utilized in the field of glycochemistry and carbohydrate research. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of complex oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates, which are essential for studying biological processes such as cell signaling, immune response, and pathogen interactions. Its structure, featuring multiple protective groups, allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in the development of glycosylation strategies. Additionally, it is employed in the preparation of sialic acid derivatives, which are crucial for investigating roles in cellular recognition and therapeutic applications, including vaccine development and drug delivery systems.