Used in antiviral therapy, particularly in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. It acts as a nucleoside analog that inhibits viral RNA replication by targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme. This compound serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients in direct-acting antiviral drugs. Its modified sugar structure enhances metabolic stability and improves selectivity for viral enzymes over host cell polymerases, reducing toxicity. Also investigated for potential use in other RNA virus treatments due to its ability to induce lethal mutagenesis in viral genomes.