Used in research to study iron metabolism and storage due to its ability to bind and release iron. Commonly employed in nanotechnology as a template for synthesizing uniform nanoparticles, particularly in drug delivery systems and imaging applications. Its cage-like structure makes it useful for encapsulating and stabilizing various molecules. Applied in biomedical studies to develop targeted therapies and diagnostic tools. Also utilized in material science for creating bio-inspired nanomaterials with precise control over size and composition.