Immunoassays (ELISA, Western Blot): Added to wash and blocking buffers (e.g., TBST/PBST) to reduce nonspecific binding and background.

Immunofluorescence/Immunocytochemistry: Used for gentle permeabilization and washing to improve antibody penetration and specificity.

Flow Cytometry: Included in staining/wash buffers to minimize cell clumping and nonspecific antibody interactions.

Protein Solubilization/Stabilization: Acts as a mild nonionic surfactant to solubilize and stabilize proteins without denaturation.

Membrane Protein Extraction: Aids in gentle extraction of membrane-associated proteins for downstream analyses.

Blocking Nonspecific Binding: Incorporated in buffers to block hydrophobic sites on membranes and plastics.

PCR/qPCR Additive: Low concentrations reduce surface adsorption of enzymes and templates, improving reaction consistency.

Sample and Surface Wetting: Improves wetting in microplates, pipette tips, and assays to enhance reproducibility.

Cell Lysis Buffers: Included as a gentle detergent component for mild lysis and cleanup steps.

Microbial Washing/Detachment: Used in buffers to help detach bacteria from surfaces for culture, counting, or microscopy.