Hepatic glycogenolysis

Hepatic glycogenolysis refers to the enzymatically regulated breakdown of liver-stored polysaccharide glycogen into free glucose molecules. This process occurs primarily during periods when blood sugar drops—such as fasting—or under stress conditions requiring rapid energy supply. It involves sequential action by several key enzymes including glycogen phosphorylase, phosphorylase kinase, and debranching enzyme. The released glucose helps maintain systemic energy balance and supports tissues highly dependent on circulating glucose like the brain and red blood cells. Dysregulation leads to various metabolic diseases including hypoglycemia and inherited disorders known as hepatic glygocen storage diseases[1][2][3][7][9].

Other names

Liver glycogen breakdownGlycogen degradation (liver)Hepatic glucose mobilization

Drugs affecting hepatic glycogenolysis act via: - Modulation of hormone receptors such as glucagon receptor and beta adrenergic receptors leading to activation/inhibition of cAMP signaling cascade - Direct inhibition/activation of key enzymes such as glycogen phosphorylase, phosphorylase kinase, or related kinases/phosphatases