Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiviral and anticancer agents, particularly in the development of nucleoside analogs. Its structure allows for selective modification, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for designing drugs that interfere with DNA or RNA synthesis. Commonly employed in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and other biologically active molecules targeting viral replication and tumor growth. Also utilized in research settings to explore new pathways in pyrimidine-based drug discovery.