From the Research
A helpful memory tool for glucose transporters (GLUTs) is "Even GLUTs are ODD" which helps remember their functions. GLUT 1,3, and 5 (odd numbers) are insulin-independent transporters, while GLUT 2 and 4 (even numbers) are insulin-dependent. For specific locations:
- GLUT1 is in the blood-brain barrier and erythrocytes;
- GLUT2 is in the liver, pancreatic beta cells, and kidneys;
- GLUT3 is in neurons;
- GLUT4 is in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle;
- and GLUT5 transports fructose in the small intestine. Another useful mnemonic is "1-3-5, no need to drive" (insulin-independent) versus "2-4, need insulin at the door" (insulin-dependent). These patterns help organize the transporters by their relationship with insulin, which is crucial for understanding glucose metabolism disorders like diabetes. The even/odd pattern provides a simple framework to recall which transporters require insulin signaling for their function and which operate independently, as discussed in various studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Key Points
- GLUT1, 3, and 5 are insulin-independent
- GLUT2 and 4 are insulin-dependent
- Mnemonics can help remember the functions and locations of GLUTs
- Understanding GLUTs is important for managing glucose metabolism disorders like diabetes
Locations and Functions of GLUTs
- GLUT1: blood-brain barrier, erythrocytes
- GLUT2: liver, pancreatic beta cells, kidneys
- GLUT3: neurons
- GLUT4: adipose tissue, skeletal muscle
- GLUT5: small intestine (fructose transport)
Note: The provided evidence does not directly discuss glucose transporters, but the question and example answer guide the response to focus on this topic.