What is the medical term for the breakdown of glycogen in the liver?

The breakdown of glycogen in the liver is referred to as glycogenolysis. This process occurs when the body needs to convert stored glycogen back into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream to maintain adequate blood sugar levels. Glycogenolysis is crucial during periods of fasting or intense exercise when the body requires quick access to energy.

In contrast, glycogenesis is the process of synthesizing glycogen from glucose, while gluconeogenesis refers to the formation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, producing energy in the form of ATP. Each of these terms describes distinct metabolic processes, highlighting the specific role of glycogenolysis in energy mobilization in the body.