Widely used as a fluorogenic substrate in enzymatic assays, particularly for the detection and quantification of β-galactosidase activity. Upon enzymatic cleavage, it releases a highly fluorescent product, enabling sensitive measurement in biological samples. Commonly applied in high-throughput screening, gene expression studies (e.g., in reporter gene assays), and microbial detection in clinical and environmental samples. Its sulfate group enhances solubility and stability, making it suitable for use in a variety of buffer systems and assay conditions. Also employed in histochemical staining to visualize enzyme distribution in tissues and cells.