Used in biochemical research to study metabolic disorders such as alkaptonuria, a rare genetic disease where the body cannot properly break down homogentisic acid, leading to its accumulation. It serves as a diagnostic marker and helps in understanding oxidative stress and pigment formation in connective tissues. Also utilized in laboratory settings to investigate enzyme function, particularly homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase activity. Its oxidation properties are studied in relation to ochronosis and arthritis development.