adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a molecule that serves as the primary energy currency of cells. It stores energy in its high-energy bonds, which molecules can break to release energy needed for various biological processes such as muscle contraction, cell division, and nerve function. When ATP loses a phosphate group, it becomes adenosine diphosphate (ADP), releasing energy. Cells continually regenerate ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate using nutrients derived from food, making ATP essential for maintaining life functions and cellular activities efficiently.