Recombinant Human Glucose Transporter GLUT4 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Biological function summary

GLUT4 helps regulate blood sugar levels through its control over glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissues. As an important component of the insulin-regulated glucose transport system GLUT4 responds to increased insulin levels by moving to the cell's surface aiding in glucose transportation into the cell. This adaptive response reduces blood glucose concentration after food intake. GLUT4 operates largely independently but may interact with other glucose transporters like GLUT1 to maintain normal cellular glucose homeostasis.

Pathways

GLUT4 plays a significant role in the insulin signaling pathway and glucose homeostasis. Activation of the insulin receptor triggers a signaling cascade that includes enzymes like Akt (protein kinase B) which facilitates the translocation of GLUT4 vesicles to the plasma membrane. This translocation is important for glucose entry into the cells. Other key proteins in this pathway include IRS (insulin receptor substrate) proteins which act as signaling intermediates to link insulin receptor activation to downstream targets like GLUT4. Its activity is central to the maintenance of energy balance and storage in the body.