Used in cell biology research to increase intracellular calcium levels by acting as a calcium ionophore. It facilitates the transport of calcium ions across cell membranes, making it a valuable tool for studying calcium-dependent cellular processes such as signal transduction, gene expression, and apoptosis. Commonly used in combination with other agents like phorbol esters to activate T-cells in immunological studies. Also applied in studies involving exocytosis, mitochondrial function, and ion channel regulation. Due to its ability to induce calcium influx, it is often used to calibrate calcium imaging techniques and assess the capacity of intracellular calcium stores.