Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. It serves as a building block in the preparation of nucleoside analogs, which mimic natural nucleosides and interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Its chloro and methyl functional groups allow for selective modifications, enabling the creation of diverse derivatives for drug discovery. Also employed in agrochemical research for designing bioactive molecules with potential pesticidal or herbicidal activity.