Used primarily in carbohydrate chemistry as a protected intermediate for synthesizing complex sugars and glycoconjugates. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of glycosides, oligosaccharides, and other sugar derivatives. Its isopropylidene groups provide stability during chemical reactions, making it valuable in the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of antiviral and anticancer agents. Additionally, it is employed in research to study enzyme mechanisms and carbohydrate-protein interactions.