Used in biochemical research for studying sialic acid metabolism and its role in cell signaling, viral infections, and immune responses. Serves as a precursor in the synthesis of glycoconjugates and oligosaccharides found on cell surfaces. Applied in the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents targeting influenza and other pathogens that interact with sialic acid receptors. Also utilized in enzymatic assays to investigate sialidase and acetyltransferase activity.