How does the adrenaline hormone cause the conversion of glycogen to glucose?

This can best be described as the second messenger model. Adrenaline is a hydrophillic hormone so it only acts on receptors on the cell surface membranes. The hormone fuses to the receptor site which then activates the release of an enzyme called adenyl cyclase. This enzyme helps convert ATP to cyclic AMP (cAMP).cAMP behaves as the second messenger. An increase in cAMP levels activates specific enzymes called protein kinases which then phosphorylate and active other key enzymes, such as digestive enzymes. These all work together to convert (break down) glycogen to glucose.The second messenger model is a model regularly seen throughout human biology in various processes, mostly including the use of hydrophillic hormones.

KP
Answered by Kimberley P. Biology tutor

11913 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does genetic variation occur in meiosis?


Explain the process that occurs in neuromuscular junctions from when the action potential in the pre-synaptic knob to transmission in the next neurone (6 marks).


What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?


Two species of frogs, each found on one of two neighbouring islands yet with the same genus, are identified. Scientists believe that the two species originated from a common ancestor. Explain how these species could have evolved.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning