Used as a stable isotope-labeled tracer in metabolic studies to track glucose metabolism pathways, particularly in glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway. Enables precise monitoring of metabolic flux in cells, tissues, or whole organisms using techniques like mass spectrometry or NMR. Commonly employed in research on diabetes, cancer metabolism, and mitochondrial disorders to understand glucose utilization and identify metabolic abnormalities. Also used in clinical diagnostic settings to assess organ function and metabolic health.