Used in biochemical research to study fatty acid metabolism and enzyme activity, particularly in the context of lipid biosynthesis and degradation. It serves as a substrate for acyl-CoA synthetases and other enzymes involved in lipid processing. Applied in vitro to investigate metabolic pathways, such as beta-oxidation, and to understand the role of acyl-CoA derivatives in cellular energy production. Also utilized in the development of assays to measure enzyme kinetics and to explore potential therapeutic targets for metabolic disorders.