2-Amino-6-chloropurine riboside is primarily used in biochemical research as a nucleoside analog. It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of modified nucleotides, which are essential for studying nucleic acid metabolism and enzyme mechanisms. This compound is also employed in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents, as it can interfere with the replication of DNA and RNA in target cells. Additionally, it is utilized in the study of purine salvage pathways and the role of nucleoside kinases in cellular processes. Its ability to mimic natural nucleosides makes it a valuable tool in probing the biochemical pathways involved in nucleotide synthesis and degradation.