Used as a chromogenic substrate in enzymatic assays to detect and quantify α-glucosidase activity. Upon hydrolysis by α-glucosidase, it releases 4-nitrophenol, which is yellow in color under basic conditions, allowing for easy spectrophotometric detection at around 400–410 nm. Commonly employed in biochemical research and diagnostic applications to study enzyme kinetics, inhibition, and the effects of various compounds on α-glucosidase function. Its clear color change makes it ideal for high-throughput screening and educational lab experiments.