Glucose Transporter Type 1
Glucose Transporter Type 1 (GLUT1) is a protein that facilitates the transport of glucose across cell membranes. It is primarily found in the brain, red blood cells, and the blood-brain barrier, where it plays a crucial role in providing energy to cells. GLUT1 operates through a process called facilitated diffusion, allowing glucose to move from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration without the need for energy.
GLUT1 is essential for maintaining normal glucose levels in the body. Mutations in the GLUT1 gene can lead to various health issues, including GLUT1 deficiency syndrome, which can cause neurological problems due to insufficient glucose supply to the brain. Understanding GLUT1 is important for developing treatments for related disorders.