Used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of natural products and pharmaceuticals. Its acetonide-protected diol structure with an aldehyde functional group allows selective transformations, making it valuable in asymmetric synthesis. Commonly employed in the synthesis of antiviral and antibacterial agents due to its ability to serve as a precursor for sugar-like structures. Also utilized in fragrance chemistry for constructing complex odorants, especially in the creation of sandalwood-type aroma compounds. Its stability and reactivity profile make it suitable for multi-step synthetic routes where functional group compatibility is essential.