Information about the mineral (Phosphorus)?

Question

As it is one of the main minerals required in a diet I want to know:

1. What its function(s) within the body?
2. What are the effects of phosphorus deficiency in humans?

Now I like my answers to be detailed but simple enough so I can understand them. If you are able to throw in a couple of links then that's great. Thank you =]

Answer 1

It plays a major role in DNA & RNA, forming part of the framework structure, and it's used (as a phosphate) to transfer cellular energy.

Deficiency is rare as phosphorus is widely distributed in many foodstuffs, however it can cause poor appetite, pain in bones, fatigue, and weak muscles, loss of weight, slow growth, improper brain and nerve function.

Answer 2

In human biochemistry the addition of, and subtraction of, inorganic phosphates (Pi) regulate where molecules can go within a cell. No phosphor : then the bodys biochemical reactions would cease. To give you an idea of just how dependent we are on this substance, look at the index of any biochemistry textbook and there will be more entries begining with phospho than anything else. One last key thing of note is that the cells in our bodies are highly dependent on organelles called 'mitochondria' for energy. The energy we need is delivered in the form of Adenosine triphosphate. We would die without phosphor.

Answer 3

1. Important inorganic constituent of bones after calcium.
2. Most important contituent of energy compounds called ATP(adenosine triphosphates) made by phosphorylation of inorganic phosphates with ADP(adenosine diphosphate).
3. Important constituent of bio-membranes as phospholipids.
4. Important constituent of DNA & RNA,as these nucleic acids are composed of nucleotides and phosphorus(as PO4) is their one important componant.
Deficiency of Phosphorus results in a disease in children called Rickettes and Ostomalacia in adults. These are the skeletal disorders.
Proper balance and proportion of phosphorus is maintained by a hormone called Parathromone secreted by parathyroid glands.