Used in biochemical research as a polyanionic compound to study interactions with proteins and enzymes, particularly in understanding binding mechanisms and enzymatic inhibition. It serves as a model polyelectrolyte in polymer science for investigating charge interactions and solution behavior. Also employed in the development of drug delivery systems due to its ability to form complexes with positively charged molecules. In analytical chemistry, it is utilized for calibrating instruments and as a standard in electrophoresis for molecular weight determination. Additionally, it finds application in water treatment processes as a flocculating agent to remove suspended particles.