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→Roles in the Body
==Roles in the Body==
==Roles in the Body==
In terms of its structural role, the main function of phosphorus is, when combined with calcium, in the '''formation of hard structures such as bones and [[Teeth - Anatomy & Physiology|teeth]]'''. Phosphorus is also involved in many key processes such as membrane integrity and provision of so-called energy-rich compounds vital to energy metabolism. It is also a component of enzyme cofactors. These are relatively small organic molecules, associated with larger enzyme molecules, which are necessary for the enzymes to function effectively. The cofactors often combine with and then release molecules or fragments of molecules as part of the overall enzymatic process. Dietary phosphorus absorption is controlled principally by [[parathyroid hormone]] (PTH), which regulates the renal production of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. The vitamin stimulates the absorption of phosphorus from the small intestine similar to the effect on [[Calcium - Nutrition|calcium]].
In terms of its structural role, the main function of phosphorus is, when combined with calcium, in the '''formation of hard structures such as bones and [[Teeth - Anatomy & Physiology|teeth]]'''. Phosphorus is also involved in many key processes such as membrane integrity and provision of so-called energy-rich compounds vital to energy metabolism. It is also a component of enzyme cofactors. These are relatively small organic molecules, associated with larger enzyme molecules, which are necessary for the enzymes to function effectively. The cofactors often combine with and then release molecules or fragments of molecules as part of the overall enzymatic process. Dietary phosphorus absorption is controlled principally by [[Parathyroid Hormone|parathyroid hormone]] (PTH), which regulates the renal production of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. The vitamin stimulates the absorption of phosphorus from the small intestine similar to the effect on [[Calcium - Nutrition|calcium]].
==Consequences of Phosphorus Deficiency==
==Consequences of Phosphorus Deficiency==