Used in drug delivery systems to enhance the stability, solubility, and targeting of therapeutic agents. Commonly employed in the formulation of liposomes, micelles, and nanoparticles for cancer treatment and other diseases. Facilitates the conjugation of targeting ligands, such as antibodies or peptides, via the maleimide group to improve specificity towards diseased cells. Applied in biomedical research for developing advanced diagnostic tools and imaging agents. Useful in creating biocompatible coatings for medical devices to reduce immune response. Plays a role in gene therapy by aiding in the delivery of genetic material to specific cells.