Pyrophosphate Assay Kit (Colorimetric / Fluorometric)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Inorganic pyrophosphate often abbreviated as PPi acts as a byproduct of several biosynthetic reactions. It possesses a molecular mass of 177.98 g/mol. Pyrophosphate functions as an energy-rich intermediate that participates actively in reactions like the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins. Inorganic pyrophosphatase an enzyme frequently associated with pyrophosphate metabolism catalyzes the hydrolysis of PPi releasing inorganic phosphate. This hydrolysis occurs release energy facilitating various biochemical processes. Pyrophosphate molecules are detected in tissues with high cell proliferation such as liver kidney and bones.

Biological function summary

Inorganic pyrophosphate plays a critical part in bone mineralization and the regulation of calcium and phosphate metabolism. It influences the bone matrix's deposition by calcifying or inhibiting mineralization depending on the balance with phosphates. Within the extracellular matrix pyrophosphate remains associated with proteins such as alkaline phosphatase which converts PPi to phosphate promoting mineralization. Pyrophosphate's activity shows strong relevance in maintaining extracellular fluid stability preventing excessive calcification.

Pathways

The involvement of inorganic pyrophosphate occurs prominently in the regulation of the ATP metabolism pathway and cartilage formation. It is closely related to the enzyme family of pyrophosphatases which include both soluble inorganic pyrophosphatase and membrane-integrated soluble pyrophosphatases. These enzymes orchestrate converting pyrophosphate into orthophosphate ions feeding into the pathways that regulate energy homeostasis and biomineralization. Interaction with proteins like ENPP1 and TNAP highlight its role within the broader context of nucleic acid synthesis and tissue calcification.

Associated diseases and disorders

Abnormal levels of inorganic pyrophosphate link to skeletal disorders like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. High pyrophosphate concentrations can lead to pathological calcification processes prominently affecting joint health and bone density. The enzyme ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) connects to pyrophosphate's regulation of these diseases where it influences extracellular pyrophosphate concentration and subsequently mineralization. Understanding pyrophosphate dynamics provides insights into the pathophysiology of metabolic bone diseases.