Biochemistry in Tables, Schemes, and Graphs - S.D. Zhamsaranova 2009

Carbohydrate metabolism and functions
Glycogen

Glycogen is the primary form of glucose storage in animal Cells. In plants, starch performs this same function. Structurally, glycogen, much like starch, is a branched glucose polymer:

Class="center">Structure OF GLYCOGEN

However, glycogen is more extensively branched and compact. This branching allows for the rapid release of A large number of terminal monomers when glycogen is broken down. The Synthesis and Breakdown of glycogen are not the exact reverse of one another; these processes occur via distinct pathways.

Glycogen is synthesized during the digestive period (within 1–2 hours after consuming carbohydrate-rich food). Glycogenesis proceeds particularly intensely in The Liver and skeletal Muscles.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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