[Phosphate homeostasis in the human body]

Phosphate is an essential element of the body, not only as a constituent of the bone, but also as a constituent of phospholipid and protein, and plays an pivotal role in cellular function, such as in energy production and signal transduction. Hence, the human body possesses a strong protective function to prevent phosphate depletion from the body. Phosphate regulation is performed mainly by the proximal tubulus of the kidney. When excessive phosphate is loaded into the body, the kidney with normal function can easily excrete excessive phosphate. However, if the renal function deteriorates, phosphate cannot be adequately excreted in the urine, frequently causing hyperphosphatemia. Recently, new mechanisms of phosphate sensing and metabolism are being investigated.