How Do You Spell ALKALINE PHOSPHATE?

1. Alkaline phosphate, also known as alkaline phosphatase, is an enzyme present in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, bones, intestines, and kidneys. It is primarily responsible for catalyzing the hydrolysis of phosphate esters, which are involved in numerous biological processes.

   The enzyme derives its name from its optimal pH range, which is alkaline or basic, typically around pH 8-10. Alkaline phosphate plays a crucial role in bodily functions, including the regulation of bone growth and mineralization, as well as the metabolism of nucleotides, lipids, and proteins.

   A commonly measured form of alkaline phosphate is found in serum, known as serum alkaline phosphatase (SAP). Elevations in SAP levels can indicate various conditions, including liver or bone diseases, certain cancers, as well as metabolic disorders. Conversely, low levels of SAP may suggest malnutrition, vitamin deficiency, or certain genetic disorders.

   Clinicians often measure alkaline phosphate levels in conjunction with other liver function tests, bone metabolism markers, and clinical symptoms to aid in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions. In some cases, an isoenzyme analysis may be required to determine the tissue origin of alkaline phosphate, as different isoforms of the enzyme exist in different tissues.

   In summary, alkaline phosphate is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphate esters and is involved in numerous biological processes. It is primarily found in the liver, bones, intestines, and kidneys and plays a vital role in bone health, metabolism, and the regulation of phosphates in the body.

2. The phosphate of sodium or of potassium; these are acid salts, but are called alkaline because they are salts of the alkali metals.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ALKALINE PHOSPHATE

The word "alkaline" comes from the Arabic word "qaliy", meaning ashes. In medieval chemistry, the term "alkali" referred to substances that could be obtained from the ashes of plant materials. Similarly, the term "alkaline" refers to substances that possess properties similar to those of alkalis.

The term "phosphate" originates from the Greek word "phosphoros", meaning "light-bringing" or "light-bearer". This is because certain salts of phosphoric acid can glow in the dark.

Therefore, the etymology of the term "alkaline phosphate" combines the Arabic origin of "alkaline" with the Greek origin of "phosphate" to describe a substance that exhibits alkaline properties and contains phosphate ions.