Used in biochemical research and metabolic studies as an intermediate in the pentose phosphate pathway and nucleotide synthesis. Serves as a precursor for the production of ATP, RNA, and DNA in cell culture and enzymatic assays. Commonly utilized in studies related to energy metabolism, especially in muscle and cardiac tissues where rapid ATP regeneration is critical. Also employed in the synthesis of ribonucleotides and as a reagent in biotechnological applications involving ribose metabolism. Its disodium salt form enhances solubility and stability in aqueous solutions, making it suitable for use in physiological buffers and enzyme-catalyzed reactions.