Used in cell culture media as a source of formylated folate, supporting one-carbon metabolism in rapidly dividing cells. Plays a role in nucleotide synthesis, particularly in the formylation of glycine and methionyl-tRNA, essential for purine and protein synthesis. Commonly applied in research settings involving folate-dependent enzymatic reactions, including studies on cancer cell metabolism and antifolate drug mechanisms. Also utilized in microbiology for the growth of certain auxotrophic bacterial strains requiring folic acid derivatives.