Used in cell signaling research, particularly in studies related to sphingolipid metabolism and its role in regulating cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation. It serves as a bioactive intermediate in pathways involving sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptors, helping scientists understand immune cell trafficking and vascular development. Due to its structural similarity to endogenous sphingolipids, it is also employed in biochemical assays to modulate enzyme activity, including sphingosine kinases and phosphatases. Its C17 base variant is often chosen as a stable analog for tracing metabolic fate or inhibiting specific steps in sphingolipid-related diseases.