This enzyme belongs to the family of transferases, specifically those transferring phosphorus-containing nucleotide groups (nucleotidyltransferases).

The systematic name of this enzyme class is ATP:alpha-D-glucose-1-phosphate adenylyltransferase.

The rate limiting step in their synthesis appears to be regulated at the level of this enzyme.

In contrast, in many animals, the synthesis of alpha 1,4 glucans (glycogen) uses UDP-glucose as a glucose donor.

As of late 2007, 3 structures have been solved for this class of enzymes, with PDB accession codes 1YP2, 1YP3, and 1YP4.