Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is an essential molecule composed of a sugar (ribose), a nitrogenous base (adenine), and three phosphate groups. One of the main sites of ATP production in the body is the mitochondria.
The importance of ATP lies in its role as the primary source of chemical energy in living matter, often referred to as the “energy currency” for intracellular energy transfer. Its function is to store and release energy as needed, acting as an energy reservoir activated during cellular demands.
For the energy contained in the ATP molecule to be released, hydrolysis occurs, breaking the molecule into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and a phosphate group, releasing free energy in the process.
ATP is fundamental in providing the necessary energy for muscle contraction, making it indispensable for the proper performance of horses during exercise. Supplementing with ATP before competitions can provide ready-to-use energy, enhancing the performance of athletic horses and improving competition results.
