Glucose Transporter (GLUT) Protein

Definition

GLUT proteins are a wide group of membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of glucose over a plasma membrane.

Related terms

Facilitated Diffusion:

This is the process by which substances move down their concentration gradient across the cell membrane with the help of carrier molecules like GLUT proteins.

Insulin:

A hormone that regulates glucose levels in the blood. It increases the activity of GLUT proteins to allow more glucose into cells when blood sugar levels are high.

Glycolysis:

The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, releasing energy. This process depends on GLUT proteins to supply cells with glucose.