Which process involves the synthesis of glycogen from glucose?

The synthesis of glycogen from glucose is called glycogenesis. This metabolic process occurs primarily in the liver and muscle cells and is crucial for storing glucose as glycogen, which can be utilized later for energy needs. During glycogenesis, excess glucose that is not immediately needed for energy is linked together in a series of reactions to form glycogen, a polysaccharide that serves as a glucose reserve.

This process is activated when insulin is released in response to high blood glucose levels, promoting the uptake of glucose by cells and its conversion into glycogen. Glycogenesis helps maintain blood sugar levels within a normal range and ensures that energy is available for future metabolic needs, especially during periods of fasting or intense physical activity.

In contrast, gluconeogenesis refers to the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, glycogenolysis is the breakdown of glycogen back into glucose, and fermentation involves anaerobic processes to produce energy, typically yielding byproducts like lactic acid or ethanol.