Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a type of enzyme that is widely distributed throughout the human body. It is found in high concentrations in tissues such as the liver, bone, and intestine..

The primary function of ALP is to cleave phosphates from organic molecules, converting them into more water-soluble forms. This process helps regulate the levels of phosphate in the body, which is important for many biological processes, including bone metabolism, cellular signaling, and energy metabolism.

In the bone, ALP helps promote bone growth and remodeling by removing phosphate from bone matrix and releasing it into the bloodstream. In the liver, ALP is involved in the metabolism of bile acids, which are important for the digestion and absorption of fats.

In addition to its metabolic functions, ALP is also used as a diagnostic marker in medical tests. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood can indicate liver disease, bone disorders, or certain cancers. Conversely, low levels of ALP can indicate deficiencies in vitamins and minerals that are important for bone health.