Used as a protecting agent for carbonyl groups in organic synthesis, enabling selective reactions at other functional sites. Serves as a chiral auxiliary and building block in pharmaceutical synthesis due to its reactive thiol and hydroxyl groups. Employed in the preparation of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold surfaces for biosensors and electrochemical applications. Acts as a stabilizer for nanoparticles, particularly gold and silver, by forming strong thiol-metal bonds. In biochemistry, it functions as a reducing agent to protect sulfhydryl (-SH) groups from oxidation, preventing unwanted disulfide bond formation during protein handling, electrophoresis, and extraction of oxidation-sensitive enzymes. Also utilized in cosmetic formulations, especially hair waving preparations, where it modifies disulfide bonds in keratin.