Glycogen Colorimetric Assay Kit

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Glycogen acts as a critical energy storage polymer in the human body. It is a branched glucose polymer commonly referred to as animal starch which forms granular aggregates within cells. These aggregates typically weigh between 400 to 600 kDa. Glycogen is primarily expressed in the liver and skeletal muscle tissues. In the liver glycogen maintains blood glucose levels while in muscles it supplies energy during contraction. Measurement of glycogen levels in tissues can be performed using specialized tools like a glycogen assay kit glycogen x or a glycogen test.

Biological function summary

Glycogen functions to store energy in the form of glucose units allowing for a quick release when the body requires immediate energy. It does not belong to a traditional complex but does interact with various enzymes in glycogen metabolism. Glycogen phosphorylase and glycogen synthase regulate its breakdown and synthesis respectively. Enzymatic activities such as the hydrolysis of glycogen play a significant role in mobilizing glucose units from glycogen therefore facilitating metabolic processes.

Pathways

Glycogen is integral in glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. During glycolysis enzymes such as phosphoglucomutase convert glycogen-derived glucose-1-phosphate into glucose-6-phosphate which then enters glycolysis to produce energy. In gluconeogenesis glycogen can be synthesized as an energy reserve. Glycogen metabolism involves key proteins like insulin and glucagon that control glucose levels and consequently the activities of enzymes acting on glycogen.

Associated diseases and disorders

Glycogen storage diseases (GSD) and type 2 diabetes illustrate the consequences of abnormal glycogen metabolism. The accumulation or deficiency of glycogen in tissues causes various forms of GSDs which lead to organ dysfunction. In diabetes impaired insulin action affects glycogen synthesis and breakdown resulting in dysregulated blood sugar levels. Key proteins associated with these conditions include insulin glucagon and glycogen synthase.