The chemical reactions involving the nonmetallic element phosphorus or compounds that contain phosphorus, usually in the form of a phosphate group (PO4).

The chemical reactions involving the phosphate group, the anion or salt of any phosphoric acid.

The chemical reactions involving a polyphosphate, the anion or salt of polyphosphoric acid.

The breakdown into simpler components of a polyphosphate, the anion or salt of polyphosphoric acid.

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the cell over time, from its formation to the mature structure. Cell development does not include the steps involved in committing a cell to a specific fate.

Processes by which a cell attains its full functional capacity. These process are independent of morphogenetic change.

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the autonomic nervous system over time, from its formation to the mature structure. The autonomic nervous system is composed of neurons that are not under conscious control, and is comprised of two antagonistic components, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The autonomic nervous system regulates key functions including the activity of the cardiac (heart) muscle, smooth muscles (e.g. of the gut), and glands.

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the enteric nervous system over time, from its formation to the mature structure. The enteric nervous system is composed of two ganglionated neural plexuses in the gut wall which form one of the three major divisions of the autonomic nervous system. The enteric nervous system innervates the gastrointestinal tract, the pancreas, and the gall bladder. It contains sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons. Thus the circuitry can autonomously sense the tension and the chemical environment in the gut and regulate blood vessel tone, motility, secretions, and fluid transport. The system is itself governed by the central nervous system and receives both parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation.