Solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter member 5 (GLUT5)

GLUT5 is a membrane-bound transporter protein encoded by the SLC2A5 gene, specializing in the facilitated diffusion of D-fructose across cell membranes[5][3][2][4]. Unlike other members of the GLUT family, GLUT5 is specific for fructose and is primarily expressed in the apical membrane of small intestinal enterocytes, where it mediates dietary fructose absorption[2][4][5][6]. It is also present in other tissues including skeletal muscle, kidney, adipose tissue, testis, and brain[4][3]. GLUT5 belongs to the Major Facilitator Superfamily and the sugar porter subfamily and has a structure composed of twelve transmembrane helices arranged in two six-helix bundles[2][3]. Dysfunction or altered expression of GLUT5 is implicated in disorders such as fructose malabsorption, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and several cancers, recruiting interest in GLUT5 as a therapeutic target, particularly for metabolic diseases and oncology[2][3][6]. Although clinical drugs specifically targeting GLUT5 are not yet available, inhibitors are being investigated for their potential to block fructose uptake in relevant diseases[3]. Detection of GLUT5 protein or gene expression may serve as a biomarker for disease predisposition or progression, especially in cancer and metabolic disorders. Selectivity and safety are important considerations in prospective therapies due to the wide tissue distribution[2][3][4][5].

Other names

GLUT5Fructose transporterSolute carrier family 2 member 5SLC2A5

Inhibition of facilitated fructose transport, blocking intestinal/fructose uptake and associated metabolic pathways[3][2] Potential modulation of energy substrate utilization in cancer cells