Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for building more complex heterocyclic compounds. Commonly employed in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and nucleoside analogs. Also utilized in agrochemical research for designing bioactive molecules. Its aldehyde group enables Schiff base formation, useful in coordination chemistry and catalyst design.