Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure allows for modification in nucleoside analogs, which can interfere with viral replication or tumor growth. Also employed in research settings to study nucleic acid chemistry and base pairing due to its modified uracil core with a carboxylic acid functional group. The compound's ability to form hydrogen bonds makes it useful in designing molecules with specific biological targeting.