Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol **P** and atomic number 15. It is an essential nonmetal found in all living organisms, primarily as inorganic phosphate or organic phosphates. In biology, phosphorus is vital for the structure of DNA and RNA, energy transfer via ATP/ADP/AMP, cell membrane integrity through phospholipids, intracellular signaling pathways, and skeletal mineralization. The body tightly regulates serum inorganic phosphate concentrations through coordinated actions involving the intestine, kidneys, parathyroid glands, bone tissue, and endocrine signals such as fibroblast growth factor 23. Disruption of phosphorus homeostasis—especially excess—can contribute to chronic kidney disease complications like vascular calcification and metabolic disturbances[2][5][8]. **Note:** "Phosphorus" refers to a chemical element rather than a specific molecular therapeutic target such as an enzyme or receptor. While its compounds are critical in many biological processes—and some drugs modulate its absorption or excretion—it is not itself considered a direct drug target or receptor[1][10].

Other names

elemental phosphorusphosphate in biological context

Not applicable for elemental phosphorus as a drug target; phosphate binders reduce intestinal absorption of dietary phosphate