[Val¹²]HRAS downregulates GLUT2 in β cells of transgenic mice without affecting glucose homeostasis

Glucose-induced insulin release from pancreatic β cells depends on the β-cell metabolism of glucose, which generates intracellular signals for secretion. The β-cell glucose transporter isotype GLUT2 and the glucose phosphorylating enzyme glucokinase have both been implicated in coupling insulin secretion to extracellular glucose levels. Here we present evidence that a pronounced decrease in β-cell GLUT2 has no immediate effect on glucose homeostasis. Analysis of transgenic mice overexpressing human [Val¹²]HRAS oncoprotein under control of the insulin promoter reveals a great reduction in plasma-membrane GLUT2 levels. These mice are nonetheless able to maintain normal fed and fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels for a period of several months. Insulin secretion studied in isolated islets and the perfused pancreas is characterized by a normal incremental response to increasing glucose concentrations. Glucose metabolism, as measured by glucose phosphorylation and oxidation in isolated islets, shows a normal dose dependence on extracellular glucose concentrations. These findings suggest that normal GLUT2 expression in β cells is not essential for glucose sensing. The transgenic mice provide an experimental system for studying the role of glucose phosphorylation in regulation of insulin release in the absence of GLUT2.