Significance and properties of the complex formation of phosphate and polyphosphate groups in particles present in living cells

Phosphorus, occurring mainly in the form of phosphate, is an essential element for the proper functioning of living systems. Phosphate and polyphosphate groups occur as inorganic phosphate (free phosphate anion in solution) and are present in biomolecules such as phosphorylated amino acids, nucleotides, and phytic acid. In solution, phosphates can exist in four different forms depending on pH, and they are involved in non-covalent interactions with positively charged species. This review summarizes the participation of phosphates of nucleotides, phosphorylated amino acids, and phytic acid in weak interactions with biogenic amines and in complexes with biometal ions not only in solution but also in solid state. The study of these processes can enable to understand many of the most important aspects of a cell’s life, thus explaining why, for example, abnormal phosphorylation leads to the development of diseases, and highlighting the role of phosphates in chemical interactions. In addition, the formation of one-, two-, and three-dimensional polynuclear metal-phosphonate assemblies by phosph(on)ate ligands has been described.