Used in research to study cell adhesion mechanisms, particularly in gastrointestinal cancers. Plays a role in identifying tumor biomarkers due to its overexpression in colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers. Applied in immunoassays and antibody development for diagnostic tools. Supports the development of targeted therapies by serving as an antigen for monoclonal antibody production. Also utilized in protein-protein interaction studies to understand signaling pathways involved in cancer progression.