Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure supports the formation of nucleoside analogs, which can interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Also employed in agrochemicals for the creation of certain herbicides and plant growth regulators due to its ability to mimic natural pyrimidine metabolites. Additionally, it serves as a building block in the preparation of functionalized heterocyclic compounds for research in medicinal chemistry.