Glucose Transport
Glucose transport refers to the process by which glucose, a vital source of energy for cells, moves from the bloodstream into cells. This process primarily occurs through specialized proteins called glucose transporters, which facilitate the movement of glucose across cell membranes. There are different types of glucose transporters, such as GLUT1 and GLUT4, each playing a specific role in various tissues.
The transport of glucose can occur via two main mechanisms: facilitated diffusion and active transport. In facilitated diffusion, glucose moves down its concentration gradient without the use of energy, while active transport requires energy to move glucose against its gradient. This regulation is crucial for maintaining proper energy levels in the body.