Isocytosine is primarily utilized in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology as a nucleobase analog. It plays a significant role in the study of nucleic acid structures and functions, particularly in the development of synthetic nucleic acids. Researchers use isocytosine to investigate base-pairing mechanisms and to design novel DNA or RNA sequences with specific properties. Additionally, it is employed in the synthesis of modified oligonucleotides, which are essential for various diagnostic and therapeutic applications, including gene therapy and molecular diagnostics. Its unique pairing behavior also makes it valuable in the development of artificial genetic systems and in studies aimed at understanding the origins of life and the evolution of genetic materials.