Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of purine-based pharmaceuticals, including antiviral and anticancer agents. It serves as a building block in the preparation of nucleoside analogs, which mimic natural nucleosides and interfere with viral replication or tumor cell proliferation. Its structure allows for selective modification, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for designing drugs targeting specific enzymes involved in nucleotide metabolism. Also employed in research for developing novel heterocyclic compounds with potential biological activity.