Used in research related to cholesterol biosynthesis pathways, particularly in studying enzyme activities such as sterol Δ24-reductase and Δ8-Δ7 isomerase. Serves as an intermediate for synthesizing steroid hormones and vitamin D analogs in experimental settings. Also utilized in dermatological studies for its potential role in skin barrier function and lipid composition analysis. Investigated for its biological activity in cell membrane dynamics and lipid raft formation.