Used as a deuterated detergent in structural biology studies, particularly in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Its deuterated form reduces background signal in NMR, allowing for clearer analysis of membrane proteins solubilized in micelles. It mimics natural phospholipids and helps maintain protein stability and functionality in aqueous solutions. Commonly employed in the study of G-protein coupled receptors and other integral membrane proteins where high-resolution structural data is required.