pyrofosfát

Pyrofosfát, also known as diphosphate, is an anion with the chemical formula P2O74-. It is formed by the condensation of two phosphate groups with the elimination of a water molecule. This process occurs in biological systems and can also be achieved through chemical synthesis. Pyrofosfáts are important in various biochemical reactions, particularly in energy metabolism.

In cellular respiration and photosynthesis, pyrofosfát acts as a high-energy compound, similar to ATP, although its energy yield is generally lower. The hydrolysis of pyrofosfát releases energy that can be used to drive other metabolic processes. For example, in some bacteria and archaea, pyrofosfát is used as an alternative to ATP for energy generation.

Beyond its role in energy transfer, pyrofosfát is also involved in the synthesis and breakdown of macromolecules. It plays a part in the formation of nucleic acids, where the cleavage of pyrofosfát provides the driving force for phosphodiester bond formation. In bone and teeth, pyrofosfát is a component of hydroxyapatite, the primary mineral.

Industrially, various salts of pyrofosfát are used as additives in food products, acting as emulsifiers, buffering agents, and leavening agents. They are also employed in detergents and metal treatments. The stability and reactivity of pyrofosfát make it a versatile compound in both biological and industrial applications.