Sodium-Glucose Transporter
The Sodium-Glucose Transporter (SGLT) is a protein found in the cell membranes of certain tissues, primarily in the intestines and kidneys. Its main function is to transport glucose into cells by using the sodium gradient created by the sodium-potassium pump. This process is essential for absorbing glucose from food and reabsorbing it from urine.
SGLT operates through a mechanism called secondary active transport, where the movement of sodium ions down their concentration gradient drives the uptake of glucose against its gradient. There are different types of SGLT, such as SGLT1 and SGLT2, each with specific roles in glucose handling in the body.