Phosphorus in Human Body

Phosphorus in Human Body
Organic phosphates are a part of the structure of all body cells and intimately involved in cellular functions. Phosphorus is a constituent of the high energy compound ATP and thus is necessary for energy transductions essential for all cellular activity. The oxidation of carbohydrate leading to the formation of ATP also requires phosphorus since phosphorylation is an obligatory step in the metabolism of the monosaccharides.

The active coenzyme form of certain of the B vitamins also functions as the phosphorylated derivatives. Phospholipids are constituents of all cellular membranes and are active determinants of cellular permeability. DNA and RNA, the genetically compounds are responsible for cell reproduction and therefore for growth and all protein syntheses, are phosphorylated compounds.

A dietary deficiency of phosphorus is not likely to occur in the human. Because of its metabolic significance in both animals and plant tissue the mineral is widely distributed in foodstuff. Phosphorus depletion syndrome, however has been observed in grazing animals subsisting on grasses and hay that are high in calcium but low in phosphorus. The syndrome is characterized by anorexia, weakness, stiff joints and fragile bones.
Phosphorus in Human Body