Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Its protected hydroxyl groups allow selective glycosylation reactions, making it valuable in the preparation of oligosaccharides for pharmaceutical research. Commonly employed in the development of glycosidic antibiotics and antigen candidates where precise stereochemistry is required. The benzyl groups offer stability under various reaction conditions and can be removed selectively to expose hydroxyl functions for further modification. Widely applied in carbohydrate chemistry for constructing biologically active molecules.