Used in biochemical research as a substrate for studying enzyme activity, particularly for enzymes like beta-glucosidase. It aids in understanding carbohydrate metabolism and glycosidase mechanisms. Applied in the development of enzyme inhibitors for therapeutic purposes, such as treating lysosomal storage disorders. Also utilized in the synthesis of glycosides and glycoconjugates for drug delivery systems. Its role in mimicking natural glycosides makes it valuable in probing cellular processes and designing glycomimetic drugs.