Used primarily as a plasma expander in medical applications, helping to maintain blood volume and circulation in cases of shock or trauma. It is also employed in laboratory settings for density gradient centrifugation, aiding in the separation of cells and subcellular particles. Due to its biocompatibility and low toxicity, it serves as a useful matrix in drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds. Additionally, it is utilized in ophthalmic solutions to protect and lubricate the eye during surgical procedures.