Glucose transporter protein (GLUT) family (GLUT)

The GLUT family consists of integral membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of glucose and other hexoses such as fructose and galactose into and out of cells, driven by concentration gradients (facilitated diffusion). Structurally, most GLUT proteins possess 12 transmembrane domains and are part of the major facilitator superfamily, encoded by SLC2 genes. There are at least 14 identified human GLUT isoforms (GLUT1–GLUT14), each with tissue-specific expression and substrate selectivity: GLUT1 is ubiquitous and upregulated in many tumors, GLUT2 is abundant in liver and pancreas, GLUT3 is dominant in neurons, and GLUT4 is insulin-responsive in muscle and adipose tissue. Alterations in GLUT expression or activity are directly implicated in metabolic diseases (like diabetes), cardiovascular disease, and cancer, making these proteins important diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. The development of isoform-selective inhibitors and modulators is ongoing for disease treatment and research purposes. If more granular, isoform-specific data (e.g., for GLUT1, GLUT4) are required for structured usage, returning those as discrete entries is advisable.

Other names

Facilitative glucose transporterSLC2 family

Competitive inhibition of glucose binding (inhibitors); Modulation of transporter conformation