The chemical is widely used in molecular biology and genetic research for the modification of oligonucleotides. It serves as a key reagent in the synthesis of labeled DNA probes, enabling the attachment of various functional groups, such as fluorophores, biotin, or other markers, to specific sites within DNA sequences. This modification is crucial for applications like fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), where labeled probes are used to detect and locate specific DNA sequences on chromosomes. Additionally, it plays a vital role in the development of diagnostic assays, such as PCR-based tests, by facilitating the incorporation of detection tags into DNA strands. Its use also extends to the creation of customized oligonucleotides for gene editing technologies, including CRISPR, where precise DNA modifications are essential for targeted genome engineering.