Glycogen synthetase (GCS) can add the glycogen of UDPG to the original glycogen or the non-reducing
end of glycogen protein, and be connected by α - 1,4 glycoside bond. GCS is the rate limiting enzyme of
glycogen synthesis in animal body. It is also the main target enzyme of insulin. It plays an important role
in the process of glucose metabolism and maintaining the relative stability of blood glucose.
GCS catalyzes the production of glycogen and UDP from UDPG and glucose residues. Pyruvate kinase
and lactate dehydrogenase further catalyze NADH to generate NAD+. The decrease rate of NADH at 340
nm can reflect the activity of GCS.
Required but Not Provided:
Ultraviolet spectrophotometer, balance, low temperature desk centrifuge, water-bath, transferpettor, 1 mL
quartz cuvette, mortar/homogenizer, ice and distilled water.
Protocol
I. Preparation:
1. Tissue: according to the ratio of mass (g): extraction volume (mL): 1:5-10 to add the extract solution. It