Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals targeting purine metabolism. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of modified nucleosides and nucleotides, which are important in antiviral and anticancer drug research. Its hydrazino group allows for further functionalization, enabling the creation of diverse heterocyclic systems. Commonly employed in the production of cytokinin-type plant growth regulators due to its structural similarity to adenine derivatives involved in cell division. Also utilized in biochemical studies to probe enzyme mechanisms involving purine-binding sites.