Used in pharmaceutical synthesis as a key intermediate for antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure supports the development of nucleoside analogs that interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for modifying pyrimidine-based compounds to enhance biological activity. Also utilized in research settings to explore new kinase inhibitors and antifungal treatments. The iodine moiety allows for further functionalization via cross-coupling reactions, making it valuable in building complex drug-like molecules.