Which enzymes are primarily responsible for glycogenesis?

Glycogenesis is the biochemical process through which glucose is converted into glycogen for storage, primarily in the liver and muscle tissues. The enzymes that play key roles in this process are glycogen synthase and branching enzyme.

Glycogen synthase is essential for adding glucose units to the growing glycogen chain. It catalyzes the formation of α-1,4-glycosidic bonds between glucose molecules, which elongates the glycogen polymer. This enzyme is particularly crucial for the initiation of glycogen synthesis when glucose is in surplus.

The branching enzyme contributes to creating the branched structure of glycogen. It catalyzes the formation of α-1,6-glycosidic bonds, which introduce branches into the glycogen molecule. This branching is vital because it increases the solubility of glycogen and provides multiple terminal ends for quicker mobilization of glucose when the body needs energy.

Together, these two enzymes ensure that glycogen is stored efficiently, allowing for the rapid release of glucose units when needed. Thus, their roles are fundamental to the process of glycogenesis.