Solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter member 2 (GLUT2) (GLUT2)

Solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter member 2 (GLUT2) is a high-capacity, low-affinity transmembrane transporter primarily expressed in the liver, pancreatic beta cells, intestines, and kidneys [1, 6]. It plays a pivotal role in glucose homeostasis by facilitating the bidirectional movement of glucose across cell membranes and acting as a key component of the glucose-sensing apparatus in pancreatic beta cells [9, 11]. In the liver, GLUT2 mediates the uptake and release of glucose, while in the intestines and kidneys, it is involved in the absorption and reabsorption of sugars [1, 13]. Dysregulation or mutations in GLUT2 are linked to metabolic disorders such as Type 2 diabetes and Fanconi-Bickel syndrome, as well as certain cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma [6, 12, 15]. Pharmacological targeting of GLUT2 with inhibitors like phloretin or WZB117 aims to modulate glucose absorption and sensing, though achieving isoform specificity remains a significant therapeutic challenge [4, 7, 15]. Recent research also highlights its role in the central nervous system for regulating food intake and systemic glucose levels [11]. The transporter is also capable of moving other hexoses such as fructose and galactose, contributing to overall nutrient absorption [1, 14]. Therapeutic strategies involving GLUT2 inhibition are being explored to combat cancer cell metabolism, particularly in tumors that overexpress this transporter [8, 10]. Overall, GLUT2 serves as a critical metabolic sensor and gatekeeper for glucose flux in the body [9].

Other names

SLC2A2Glucose transporter type 2GLUT-2

Competitive inhibition of facilitative hexose transport across the plasma membrane, disrupting glucose sensing and uptake in target tissues.