Used primarily as a chelating agent in biochemical and analytical applications, it is particularly effective in detecting and quantifying copper ions. Its high sensitivity to Cu(I) makes it a valuable tool in assays for studying copper metabolism and oxidative stress in biological systems. Additionally, it is employed in colorimetric assays to measure the reducing capacity of plasma or serum, providing insights into antioxidant activity. In industrial settings, it serves as a stabilizer in formulations where copper ion control is critical, such as in certain types of dyes and coatings. Its ability to form stable complexes with copper also finds use in environmental testing, aiding in the detection of copper contamination in water samples.