Human plasma inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP 6 ) phosphatase identified as the Multiple Inositol Polyphosphate Phosphatase 1 (MINPP1).

Abstract

Inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP ₆ ), also known as phytic acid, is a potent chelator of bivalent cations. Intracellular InsP ₆ molecules are associated with magnesium. Calcium is the prevalent bivalent cation outside the cell and its association with InsP ₆ could lead to the formation of insoluble complexes. To avoid the formation of dangerous InsP ₆ /Calcium precipitates in the bloodstream, mammals must possess a robust InsP ₆ phosphatase in their plasma. Here we identify the Multiple Inositol Polyphosphate Phosphatase 1 ( MINPP1 ) as the InsP ₆ phosphatase present in human plasma.