Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. It plays a significant role in the preparation of pyrimidine derivatives, which are essential in medicinal chemistry for designing drugs with specific biological activities. Additionally, it is utilized in organic synthesis to create complex molecules for research and industrial applications, including agrochemicals and fine chemicals. Its reactive aldehyde group allows for further functionalization, making it a versatile building block in chemical synthesis.