Used primarily as a substrate in biochemical assays to detect the activity of N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase enzymes. It is particularly valuable in histochemistry and microbiology for identifying enzyme presence in tissues or microbial cultures. Upon enzymatic hydrolysis, it produces an insoluble colored product, making it useful for visualizing enzyme activity under a microscope. This compound is also employed in research to study lysosomal storage disorders and other conditions related to enzyme dysfunction. Its application extends to diagnostic tools for monitoring enzyme levels in clinical samples.