Mechanisms of regulation of glycogen synthesis and degradation.

The control of glycogen metabolism is discussed in terms of four principles which have emerged from molecular analysis of these systems; namely, separate enzymes for synthesis and degradation, covalent controls, noncovalent controls, and the cascade concept. The extension of some of these principles into other areas, including the control of inotropic action, is considered. Finally, how these controls function in the living cell physiologically is considered in two specific examples.