Structure, function, and regulation of the mammalian facilitative glucose transporter gene family

Ann Louise Olson, Jeffrey E. Pessin

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

395 Scopus citations

Abstract

The facilitative transport of glucose across the plasma membranes of mammalian cells is catalyzed by a family of glucose transport proteins (GLUT). Four glucose transport proteins and a fructose transport protein have been identified. These transport proteins have unique tissue distributions and biochemical properties under- lying specific physiologic functions. GLUT1, the first GLUT isoform identified, is expressed at highest levels in the endothelial of harrier tissues such as blood vessels and the blood-brain barrier. GLUT2, found predominantly in liver, intestine, kidney, and pancreatic β-cells, is a low-affinity glucose transport protein that is part of the glucose sensor in pancreatic β-cells and facilitates either glucose uptake or efflux from the liver depending on the nutritional state. GLUT3 is the glucose transporter responsible for maintaining an adequate glucose supply to neurons. GLUT4 is the insulin-regulated glucose transporter found in adipose tissues, heart muscles, and skeletal muscles that is responsible for insulin-regulated glucose disposal.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)235-256
Number of pages22
JournalAnnual Review of Nutrition
Volume16
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • GLUT1
  • GLUT2
  • GLUT3
  • GLUT4
  • insulin

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine (miscellaneous)
  • Nutrition and Dietetics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Structure, function, and regulation of the mammalian facilitative glucose transporter gene family'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this