2'-Azido-2'-deoxycytidine is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a modified nucleoside. It serves as a valuable tool in the study of nucleic acid metabolism and the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair. The azido group in its structure allows for click chemistry applications, enabling researchers to label and track nucleic acids in complex biological systems. This compound is also used in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents, as it can be incorporated into DNA to inhibit the activity of viral or tumor polymerases. Additionally, it plays a role in synthesizing nucleotide analogs for potential therapeutic applications.