Question

Which of the following glucose transporters is insulin-dependent?

• A. GLUTI
• B. GLUT II
• C. GLUT III
• D. GLUT IV

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine which glucose transporter is insulin-dependent, we need to understand the role of glucose transporters in the body. Glucose transporters (GLUT) are a group of membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of glucose across cell membranes. Among the various types of glucose transporters, certain ones have specific roles in different tissues.

• GLUT I: Found in most tissues, GLUT I is responsible for the basic uptake of glucose required in all cells. It is not insulin-dependent.
• GLUT II: Primarily located in the liver, pancreas, kidney, and intestines, this transporter facilitates the uptake and release of glucose, responding to blood sugar levels rather than insulin.
• GLUT III: This transporter is found in neurons and is considered responsible for high-affinity glucose uptake in the brain. It does not depend on insulin.
• GLUT IV: This is the glucose transporter whose activity is insulin-dependent. It is mainly found in adipose tissues and skeletal muscles, where it facilitates glucose uptake in response to insulin signaling.

Based on the above explanations, the correct answer is GLUT IV, as it is the only one that is regulated by insulin, enabling cells to increase glucose uptake when insulin levels are high, such as after meals.