Used extensively in biomedical research for density gradient centrifugation, particularly in the isolation of cellular organelles and membrane vesicles. Commonly employed in the preparation of Percoll gradients when combined with colloidal silica, enabling high-resolution separation of subcellular components. Also utilized as a plasma expander in experimental physiology due to its high molecular weight and biocompatibility, mimicking the osmotic properties of natural plasma proteins. Its inert nature makes it suitable for use in cell culture systems where viscosity and osmotic pressure need precise control.