Used as a key intermediate in carbohydrate chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans such as heparin and heparan sulfate. It serves as a protected glucuronic acid donor in glycosylation reactions, enabling the controlled formation of complex oligosaccharides. Its acetyl groups stabilize the molecule during reactions and can be selectively removed to allow further functionalization. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical research for developing anticoagulant drugs and studying extracellular matrix components.