Used extensively in biomedical research for density gradient centrifugation, particularly in the isolation of cellular organelles and membrane vesicles. Its high molecular weight and water-soluble nature make it ideal for creating stable density gradients. Commonly employed in protocols for purifying lysosomes, mitochondria, and peroxisomes. Also utilized as a volume expander in cell culture and physiological studies to mimic macromolecular crowding in intracellular environments. In some cases, serves as a non-ionic, non-metabolizable polymer to adjust osmotic pressure without interfering with biological activity.