1,4-Dithioerythritol is widely used as a reducing agent in biochemical and molecular biology applications. It is particularly effective in breaking disulfide bonds in proteins, which helps in studying protein structure and function. This chemical is also utilized in the preparation of samples for electrophoresis, ensuring proteins remain in their reduced state. Additionally, it finds application in the stabilization of enzymes and other sensitive biomolecules by maintaining a reducing environment. In industrial settings, it is employed in the synthesis of certain pharmaceuticals and as a component in various chemical reactions requiring a mild reducing agent. Its ability to protect thiol groups from oxidation makes it valuable in research and manufacturing processes.