Used as a plasma volume expander in medical settings to treat or prevent hypovolemic shock by increasing blood volume. Commonly employed during surgery, trauma, or severe dehydration when rapid expansion of circulatory volume is needed. Also utilized in laboratory settings for density gradient separations, particularly in isolating blood components like lymphocytes. Its high molecular weight allows it to remain in the vascular system longer than smaller molecules, enhancing its effectiveness in fluid retention within blood vessels.