Polyphosphates: Essential bioenergetic reservoirs and their role as critical nutrient depleters in biological systems

Abstract

Polyphosphates are linear polymers of inorganic phosphate that play a pivotal role in cellular bioenergetics and metabolism across a wide range of organisms. This review article explores the multifaceted functions of polyphosphates as essential bioenergetic reservoirs, highlighting their ability to store and release energy, thereby facilitating various biochemical processes. We discuss the synthesis and degradation pathways of polyphosphates, their influence on ATP metabolism, and their regulatory roles in cellular signaling and stress responses. Additionally, we examine how polyphosphates act as critical nutrient depleters in biological systems, impacting phosphate homeostasis. The interplay between polyphosphate metabolism and nutrient availability is scrutinized, with implications for microbial ecology, agricultural practices, and biotechnological applications. By integrating current research findings, this review emphasizes the significance of polyphosphates not only as energy reservoirs but also as key players in nutrient cycling and environmental sustainability, underscoring their importance in both basic and applied biological sciences.