Which process is promoted by sympathetic stimulation?

The process that is promoted by sympathetic stimulation is glycogenolysis. Under conditions of stress or "fight or flight," the sympathetic nervous system activates various physiological responses to prepare the body for quick action. One of the key responses includes the mobilization of energy stores.

Glycogenolysis is the breakdown of glycogen into glucose, which can then be used rapidly for energy. This process is essential during times of increased physical demand, as it provides quick access to glucose. Sympathetic stimulation leads to an increase in catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which bind to receptors on liver and muscle cells, promoting glycogen breakdown.

In contrast, glycogenesis, which is the process of synthesizing glycogen from glucose, is not favored during sympathetic activation because the body needs to mobilize energy rather than store it. Similarly, gluconeogenesis, the generation of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors, is a slower process and does not provide the immediate energy needed in response to sympathetic signals. Lastly, insulin secretion tends to be inhibited during sympathetic stimulation because insulin promotes the uptake and storage of glucose, whereas the sympathetic response prioritizes energy availability. Thus, glycogenolysis aligns with the needs of the body