This compound, a tetra-benzylated derivative of cyclen (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane), serves primarily as a protected intermediate in coordination chemistry for synthesizing advanced ligands. The benzyl groups protect the nitrogen atoms, facilitating selective functionalization to create macrocyclic chelators that form stable complexes with metal ions, including transition metals and lanthanides like gadolinium. It is valuable in catalysis, material synthesis (e.g., metal-organic frameworks or MOFs), and the development of MRI contrast agents, where deprotected or modified derivatives effectively chelate gadolinium for medical imaging. Additionally, it supports research on metal ion behavior in biological systems and the creation of niche materials with specific properties.