D-Idose is primarily used in biochemical and medical research due to its role as a rare sugar and a metabolic intermediate. It serves as a building block in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates, which are important in studying cellular recognition processes, immune responses, and pathogen interactions. D-Idose is also investigated for its potential in developing novel antibiotics and antiviral agents, as modifications in sugar structures can interfere with microbial attachment and infection mechanisms. Additionally, it is used in isotopic labeling studies to trace metabolic pathways in cells, helping researchers understand sugar metabolism in diseases such as cancer and genetic metabolic disorders. Its structural similarity to other hexoses allows it to act as a probe in enzyme studies, particularly with isomerases and epimerases involved in carbohydrate transformation.