Used in biochemical research as a buffering agent to maintain stable pH levels in various experiments. It is also employed in the preparation of cell culture media to support cell growth and viability. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as an excipient in drug formulations to enhance stability and solubility. Additionally, it is utilized in the food industry as a flavor enhancer and preservative. Its role in electrophoresis as a component of running buffers helps in the separation of proteins and nucleic acids.