Inosinic acid is a nucleotide that plays an essential role in metabolic processes within the human body. It is the precursor of adenine and guanine, which are the two purine bases present in DNA and RNA. There are several synonyms for inosinic acid, including inosine monophosphate (IMP), 5'-IMP, and inosine-5'-monophosphate. Other terms used to describe the molecule include hypoxanthine ribonucleotide and ribotide. Inosinic acid is also commonly referred to as nucleotide 5'-phosphate. The importance of this molecule is highlighted by its presence in food additives such as sodium inosinate and disodium inosinate, which are used to enhance flavor in processed foods.