Used in research as a reference standard for sterol analysis, particularly in studies involving cholesterol metabolism and bile acid biosynthesis. It serves as a stable analog of cholesterol, helping scientists investigate membrane fluidity and lipid raft formation in cellular models. Also employed in the development and validation of analytical methods like gas chromatography and mass spectrometry for steroid detection. Its saturated ring structure makes it useful in comparing the biological activity and metabolic stability of various sterols.