This chemical is primarily used in biochemical research as a substrate for studying the activity of glycosyltransferases and glycosidases. These enzymes play crucial roles in the synthesis and breakdown of glycoconjugates, which are essential for various biological processes, including cell signaling and immune response. By serving as a synthetic substrate, it helps researchers understand enzyme kinetics, specificity, and mechanisms. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of assays to screen for inhibitors or activators of these enzymes, which can have therapeutic potential in diseases like cancer, inflammation, and infections. Its p-nitrophenyl (pNP) group allows for easy detection of enzymatic activity through colorimetric methods, making it a valuable tool in laboratory settings.