Used in biochemical research to study oxygen transport and hemoglobin function in red blood cells. It helps stabilize and mimic the natural environment of hemoglobin by modulating its oxygen-binding affinity. Commonly employed in enzyme assays and metabolic studies involving glycolysis. Its salt form improves solubility and membrane impermeability, making it suitable for in vitro experiments where controlled intracellular-like conditions are required. Also utilized in the development and testing of blood substitutes and oxygen carriers.