Used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations for its skin conditioning properties. Acts as a natural moisturizing agent due to its ability to retain water, improving hydration and texture in skincare products. Also serves as a building block in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates for research and drug development. Found in some prebiotic compounds, supporting gut health by influencing microbial activity. Its structural role in glycoconjugates makes it valuable in biochemical studies related to cell signaling and immune response.