What is phosphorus for in the body?
Phosphorus is an essential mineral that is required by every cell in the body for normal function . The majority of the phosphorus in the body is found as phosphate (PO4). Approximately 85% of the body’s phosphorus is found in bone . Function Phosphorus is a major structural component of bone in the form of a calcium phosphate salt called hydroxyapatite. Phospholipids (e.g., phosphatidylcholine) are major structural components of cell membranes. All energy production and storage are dependent on phosphorylated compounds, such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate. Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), which are responsible for the storage and transmission of genetic information, are long chains of phosphate-containing molecules. A number of enzymes, hormones, and cell-signaling molecules depend on phosphorylation for their activation. Phosphorus also helps to maintain normal acid-base balance (pH) by acting as one of the body’s most important buffers. Additionally, the phosphor
