In: Anatomy and Physiology
In cells especially those in the liver, glucose molecules are bonded together to form glycogen. Why?
Like Plants store glucose in the form of Starch,In Humans,Cells store Glucose in the form of Glycogen .Glucose is need for the Production of energy (ATP) in humans for performing of cellular functions or activities.This ATP is produced from Glucose by the process of Glycolysis,Where glucose is converted into Pyruvate where there is a net release of 2 ATP.
So the Use of glucose for the prodcution of energy depends on the demand for ATP.When the body have Enough ATP and Large amount of Glucose in the blood,These glucose are bonded to form Glycogen especially in the Liver cells by the process of Glycogenesis.
This process of Glycogenesis(Conversion of Glucose into Glycogen) is Stimulated by the Release of Insulin in response to high blood glucose level from the Beta cells of Islets of Langherhans of Pancreas.Whenever Glucose is need for the Production of energy,if there is no enough glucose in Blood. These glycogen are converted back into Glucose by the process of Glycogenolysis.This is Stimulated by Hormoned Glucagon release from alpha cells of Islets of Langherhans of Pancreas.
This Conversion in the storing of Glucose in the form of Glycogen & Release of Glucose from Glycogen whenever Needed also prevents Hyperglycemia(Increased concentration of Glucose in the Blood).
Hyperglycemia can cause-
1.Headaches.
2.Blurred vision.
3.Increased thirst.
4.Frequent peeing.
5.Fatigue etc