Used in organic synthesis as a key intermediate for the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the creation of antiviral and anticancer agents. It plays a role in modifying nucleosides and nucleotides, which are essential in designing drugs that target genetic material. Additionally, it is utilized in research to study enzyme inhibition and to develop compounds with potential therapeutic applications. Its bromomethyl group allows for further functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex molecules for medicinal chemistry.