Used as a lubricant and plasticizer in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to improve texture and moisture retention. Acts as a solvent, binder, and dispersing agent in drug formulations, enhancing bioavailability of active ingredients. Employed in gene and drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and ability to prolong circulation time. Commonly used to create non-fouling surfaces in medical devices and biosensors by forming hydrophilic coatings that resist protein adsorption. Also utilized in tissue engineering as a base material for hydrogels because of its tunable physical properties and low toxicity.