Used primarily as a redox indicator in biochemical assays, particularly in cell viability and cytotoxicity tests. It is reduced by living cells to form a colored formazan product, which can be quantified spectrophotometrically to assess metabolic activity. Commonly applied in microbiology and cell biology research to evaluate the effects of drugs, toxins, or environmental conditions on cell health. It is also utilized in seed germination studies to determine seed viability and in enzyme activity assays to monitor dehydrogenase activity. Its sensitivity and reliability make it a valuable tool in both academic and industrial research settings.