Used in biochemical research as a key intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism studies, particularly in pathways involving phosphorylated sugars. Serves as a substrate or inhibitor in enzyme assays targeting glycosidases and kinases. Plays a role in the synthesis of complex oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates for drug development and cellular signaling research. Also utilized in metabolic labeling techniques to track sugar uptake and utilization in living cells.