This compound is primarily used in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. It serves as a crucial intermediate in the preparation of oligosaccharides, which are essential for studying carbohydrate-protein interactions. Its acetylated groups protect the hydroxyl functionalities during chemical reactions, allowing selective deprotection for further modifications. This makes it valuable in glycosylation reactions, where it acts as a glycosyl donor to form glycosidic bonds. Additionally, it is employed in the development of glycoconjugate vaccines and in research focused on understanding cell surface interactions and signaling pathways. Its stability and reactivity make it a preferred choice in carbohydrate chemistry and glycobiology research.