Used as a selective agent in cell culture to isolate genetically modified mammalian, bacterial, or fungal cells that carry the hygromycin resistance gene. Commonly applied in molecular biology for stable transfection experiments. Also used in veterinary medicine as an antiparasitic to control intestinal worms in livestock and poultry. Its ability to inhibit protein synthesis makes it effective against a broad range of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms.