Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP)

Adenosine diphosphate is an essential nucleotide involved primarily in cellular energy transfer via its interconversion with ATP. Its structure comprises adenine linked to ribose plus two phosphates; it functions centrally both metabolically—in processes like glycolysis—and physiologically—in platelet activation through specific purinergic receptors.

Other names

Adenosine-diphosphateADP(3−)Adenosine pyrophosphateAdenosine–5′–diphosphate[(2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(6-Aminopurin‑9‑yl)-3,4-dihydroxyoxolan‑2‑yl]methoxy‑oxidophosphoryl] phosphate

ADP interacts with P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptors on platelets, promoting platelet aggregation and blood clotting. Antiplatelet drugs block these receptors.