Used in biochemical research as a model compound for studying carbohydrate digestion and enzyme kinetics, particularly in understanding the action of amylases and other glycoside hydrolases. Serves as a standard in chromatography and electrophoresis for oligosaccharide analysis. Also utilized in the development of biosensors and diagnostic assays targeting carbohydrate-protein interactions. Its defined chain length makes it valuable in calibrating analytical instruments and validating analytical methods for complex carbohydrate characterization.