- our bones and teeth (dentin and enamel) are built of calcium phosphate based structures (hydroxyapatite): this accounts for 85% of the phosphorus in our bodies
- phosphorus is also essential for the production of collagen, the fibre which makes up ligaments and tendons, as well as contributing to bone structure, cartilage, skin and the eye
- the structure of each of our cells is based on phospholipid membranes
- the transfer of energy within cells, on which depend all body functions, from thoughtthrough to muscle function and motion, is based on adenosine tri- / di- phosphate metabolism (ADP, ATP)
- our genetic material DNA is based on a deoxyribose – phosphate chain
- phosphorus is a key component of many proteins
- important for acid-base regulation in our bodies (pH balance)
- needed to produce myelin, the covering of nerve and brain cells which allows impulsesto transmit signals (1/3 of the brain’s dry weight is phosphorus fatty acids)
- phospholipids in the blood stop fats depositing on artery walls, and so prevent heart disease
- necessary to enable the body to use certain vitamins (A, D, E, K)
- phosphates are necessary for many other biological processes within our bodies
Phosphorus content:
| Human body | |
| Bones | 12% |
| Teeth | 8% |
| Brain | 0.3% |
| Overall | 1 – 1.2% |
| Plants | |
| Plant tissues | 0.05 – 1% |