Sodium-glucose cotransporter protein subtype 2 (SGLT2)

The sodium-glucose cotransporter protein subtype 2 (SGLT2) is a membrane transporter encoded by the *SLC5A2* gene. It is predominantly expressed in the early segments (S1/S2) of the proximal convoluted tubule in the kidney. Its primary function is to mediate active reabsorption of filtered D-glucose from urine back into circulation using secondary active transport powered by a sodium gradient established by Na+/K+ ATPase activity. Under normal physiological conditions, SGLT2 accounts for approximately **97% of renal glucose reabsorption**, while its close relative SGLT1 handles most remaining absorption further along the nephron. Inhibition or loss-of-function mutations lead to increased urinary excretion of glucose—a mechanism exploited therapeutically by several classes of oral antidiabetic drugs called "gliflozins." These agents lower blood sugar independently from insulin secretion or sensitivity and have demonstrated additional benefits on cardiovascular outcomes but carry risks such as genitourinary infections and rare metabolic disturbances like euglycemic ketoacidosis.

Other names

Sodium/glucose cotransporter 2SGLT2Solute carrier family 5 member 2 (SLC5A2)

Drugs targeting this molecule inhibit SGLT2, reducing renal glucose reabsorption and increasing urinary glucose excretion. This lowers blood glucose levels independently of insulin action, making these drugs effective for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus