Animal starch

Animal Starch is a term that was historically used to refer to glycogen, a form of energy storage in animals, fungi, and bacteria. Glycogen is a polysaccharide that is primarily found in the liver and muscles of animals and humans. It is the secondary long-term energy storage in animal cells, with the primary energy stores being held in adipose tissue (fat).

Structure and Function

Glycogen is a branched polymer of glucose that serves as a form of energy storage in animals, fungi, and bacteria. The polysaccharide structure represents the main storage form of glucose in the body. Glycogen functions as the secondary long-term energy storage, with the primary energy stores being held in adipose tissue.

History

The term "animal starch" was coined in the 19th century when researchers discovered a substance in the liver that resembled plant starch. They named this substance "animal starch" due to its similar appearance and properties to plant starch. However, it was later discovered that this substance was not starch, but a different type of glucose polymer, which was then named glycogen.

Metabolism

Glycogen is synthesized and stored in the body when there is an excess of glucose, such as after a meal. This process is known as glycogenesis. When energy is needed, glycogen is broken down into glucose in a process known as glycogenolysis. This glucose can then be used to produce energy through cellular respiration.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in glycogen metabolism can lead to various diseases, known as glycogen storage diseases. These diseases are characterized by the accumulation of abnormal amounts or types of glycogen in tissues.

See Also

• Glycogen
• Glycogenesis
• Glycogenolysis
• Glycogen storage diseases
• Adipose tissue