Glycerol 3-phosphate is a key intermediate in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. It is formed during glycolysis from dihydroxyacetone phosphate and plays a central role in the glycerol-3-phosphate shuttle, which transfers reducing equivalents from cytosolic NADH to the mitochondrial electron transport chain for efficient ATP production. In gluconeogenesis, it can be converted back to dihydroxyacetone phosphate. As a precursor, it is essential for the biosynthesis of triglycerides and glycerophospholipids, which are vital for energy storage and cell membrane structure. In biochemical and biomedical research, it is extensively used to study metabolic pathways, enzyme activities (e.g., glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase), and cellular energy dynamics. It is not commonly used as a direct additive in food, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals due to its specific biochemical role.