Used as a substrate in enzymatic assays to detect β-glucuronidase activity, which is crucial in various biological and medical research applications. It helps in identifying bacterial contamination in food and water by targeting E. coli, which produces β-glucuronidase. In clinical diagnostics, it aids in studying enzyme activity in tissues and cells, particularly in cancer research. Additionally, it is utilized in molecular biology for gene expression studies and as a fluorescent marker in histochemistry to visualize enzyme activity in cells and tissues. Its hydrolysis product, 4-methylumbelliferone, emits strong fluorescence under UV light, making it valuable for sensitive detection methods.