GLUT4transportteri

GLUT4 transporter is a protein that plays a crucial role in glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue. It is a member of the facilitative glucose transporter family. GLUT4 is unique among GLUT transporters because its translocation to the plasma membrane is regulated by insulin. In the absence of insulin, GLUT4 is primarily stored in intracellular vesicles. When insulin binds to its receptor on the cell surface, it triggers a signaling cascade that promotes the movement of these vesicles to the cell membrane. Once at the membrane, GLUT4 proteins become embedded in the lipid bilayer, forming channels through which glucose can enter the cell. This process is vital for maintaining blood glucose homeostasis. After insulin levels decline, GLUT4 is internalized back into intracellular compartments. Dysfunction of GLUT4 transport is implicated in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Exercise also stimulates GLUT4 translocation independently of insulin, contributing to improved glucose control in active individuals.