This compound is widely used in biochemical research to study the activity of glycosidases and glycosyltransferases, enzymes that play crucial roles in carbohydrate metabolism. It serves as a substrate to investigate the specificity and kinetics of these enzymes, helping researchers understand their mechanisms and interactions with other biomolecules. Additionally, it is employed in the development of assays to screen for enzyme inhibitors, which can have potential therapeutic applications in diseases like cancer, viral infections, and metabolic disorders. Its structure mimics natural glycoconjugates, making it valuable for studying cell surface interactions and signaling pathways.