This chemical is primarily utilized in the synthesis of complex organic molecules, particularly in the field of carbohydrate chemistry. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of glycosides and glycoconjugates, which are essential in the development of pharmaceuticals and biochemical research. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable for creating specific stereochemical configurations required in drug design. Additionally, it is employed in the preparation of chiral building blocks for asymmetric synthesis, contributing to the development of enantiomerically pure compounds used in therapeutic agents. Its applications extend to the study of enzymatic processes and the development of inhibitors targeting glycosidases, which are relevant in treating metabolic disorders and infections.