This compound is primarily utilized in biomedical research and pharmaceutical development due to its role in cell recognition and signaling processes. It is particularly significant in studies involving inflammation and cancer, as it is known to interact with selectins, which are proteins that mediate cell adhesion. By mimicking the natural ligands of selectins, it helps in understanding and potentially blocking the pathways that lead to inflammatory responses or cancer metastasis. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool in the development of diagnostic assays and therapeutic agents aimed at targeting specific cellular interactions.