Used as a mild non-ionic detergent in biochemical and structural studies for the solubilization and purification of membrane proteins without causing denaturation. Its long hydrophobic chain and hydrophilic sugar head group make it effective in disrupting lipid bilayers while maintaining protein activity. Commonly applied in studies involving receptors, ion channels, and transporters where protein stability is critical. Also used in crystallization trials of membrane proteins due to its ability to form well-ordered detergent-protein complexes. Preferred in some applications over shorter-chain detergents because of its enhanced stability and reduced critical micelle concentration, allowing for lower concentrations in assays.