Used in cell culture to dissociate adherent cells by breaking down proteins that anchor cells to surfaces and to each other. Trypsin digests cell adhesion proteins, while EDTA enhances trypsin activity by chelating divalent cations like calcium and magnesium, which helps in cell detachment. Commonly used in subculturing cells, tissue dissociation, and preparing single-cell suspensions for passaging or analysis. Requires careful inactivation, usually by adding serum-containing medium, to prevent over-digestion and cell damage.