Used primarily as a fluorescent probe in biological imaging due to its strong emission in lipid-rich environments. It selectively accumulates in amyloid plaques, making it valuable in research related to Alzheimer's disease. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier allows for in vivo detection of protein aggregates. Also employed in the development of sensors for detecting changes in membrane polarity and in studies of protein misfolding. Shows potential in photodynamic therapy and as a scaffold for designing dyes with tunable optical properties.