Used extensively in metabolic studies to trace and understand biochemical pathways, particularly in glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway. It serves as a labeled substrate in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, enabling researchers to monitor glucose metabolism in cells and tissues. This compound is also valuable in pharmaceutical research for investigating drug effects on glucose utilization and insulin sensitivity. Additionally, it aids in the study of isotopic labeling effects on enzyme kinetics and metabolic flux analysis in both healthy and diseased states.