Which of the following processes occurs predominantly in the liver during absorptive states?

• A. Glycogenolysis
• B. Glycogenesis
• C. Gluconeogenesis
• D. Lipolysis

Answer: (B)

The process that occurs predominantly in the liver during absorptive states is glycogenesis. During the absorptive state, which typically follows a meal, the body is actively processing nutrients. After ingesting food, glucose levels in the blood rise, prompting the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into liver cells and promotes its conversion into glycogen, which is stored as an energy reserve for later use.

Glycogenesis, therefore, plays a critical role during this phase, as the liver converts excess glucose into glycogen to manage blood sugar levels effectively. This process ensures that there is a balance of glucose available for immediate energy needs while also providing a mechanism for storing energy in the form of glycogen.

Other processes like glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and lipolysis are more relevant in different metabolic states. Glycogenolysis occurs when the body needs glucose during fasting or energy demand, gluconeogenesis is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources primarily when glycogen stores are depleted, and lipolysis involves the breakdown of fats for energy, which is more prominent during fasting or energy deficit states. Hence, the emphasis on glycogenesis in the liver during absorptive states is key to maintaining homeostasis