This compound is widely used as a fluorescent probe in biological and biochemical research. Its primary application is in the detection and measurement of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. The non-fluorescent diacetate form easily penetrates cell membranes, where intracellular esterases cleave the acetate groups, converting it into a fluorescent form. This fluorescence intensity is directly proportional to the level of oxidative activity within the cells, making it a valuable tool for studying cellular redox states and oxidative damage. It is also employed in flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy to visualize and quantify ROS production in live cells, providing insights into cellular health, apoptosis, and signaling pathways. Additionally, it is used in assays to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of various compounds or treatments.