Used primarily in the pharmaceutical and biochemical research fields, this compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of rare sugars and sugar derivatives with potential therapeutic properties. Its stereochemical configuration makes it valuable in the development of enzyme inhibitors, particularly for glycosidase enzymes involved in metabolic disorders. It is also employed in studies related to cellular signaling and glycomics due to its structural similarity to natural sugar metabolites. In addition, it finds use as a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis, enabling the production of complex bioactive molecules. Its hydrated form enhances stability during storage and handling in laboratory settings.