Used in immunological research to study cell adhesion mechanisms in primates, particularly in models of gastrointestinal and liver diseases. Serves as a biomarker in cancer studies due to its overexpression in certain tumors, such as colorectal and hepatocellular carcinomas. Employed in the development and testing of monoclonal antibodies and targeted therapies, leveraging its His Tag for easy detection and purification in assay systems. Supports the validation of cross-reactive therapeutics between non-human primates and humans.