Which term is an extensively branched glucose storage polysaccharide found in the liver and muscle?

• A. Hepatocytes
• B. Hepatotoxins
• C. Glycogen
• D. Hyperbilirubinemia

Answer: (C)

Glycogen is the extensively branched storage polymer of glucose that animals synthesize to store energy for later use. In the liver, glycogen helps maintain blood glucose levels between meals, while in skeletal muscle it provides a rapid local energy source during contraction. Its structure, with many α-1,4-linked glucose chains and frequent α-1,6 branches, allows quick synthesis and breakdown and keeps it soluble. This rapid mobilization is carried out by enzymes like glycogen phosphorylase and debranching enzymes when glucose is needed. The other terms refer to different concepts: hepatocytes are liver cells, hepatotoxins are substances that damage the liver, and hyperbilirubinemia is an elevated bilirubin level not related to a glucose storage polymer.