Used in biochemical and molecular biology laboratories to maintain stable pH during enzymatic reactions, especially in DNA and RNA extraction protocols. Provides optimal acidic to neutral pH environment required for efficient lysis and nucleic acid stabilization. Commonly used in combination with chaotropic agents to inhibit nuclease activity. Also applied in protein purification and electrophoresis sample preparation where consistent pH control is critical. Its lithium ion content enhances solubility of nucleic acids and improves yield in isolation procedures.