Question 1

What is the Meaning of AS160?

Accepted Answer

AS160, formally Akt substrate of 160 kDa, is a pivotal protein in the cellular response to insulin. It functions as a Rab-GTPase-activating protein, directly influencing glucose transport into cells. This protein acts as a molecular switch, critically affecting the movement of glucose transporters to the cell surface.

Question 2

What is the Context of AS160?

Accepted Answer

Within cellular metabolism, AS160 operates primarily in insulin-sensitive tissues like skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. It is positioned downstream of the insulin receptor signaling cascade, serving as an essential mediator linking insulin binding to the subsequent translocation of GLUT4 glucose transporters. This specific localization is fundamental for maintaining systemic glucose homeostasis.

Question 3

What is the Significance of AS160?

Accepted Answer

Understanding AS160's function holds clinical significance because its dysregulation is strongly associated with insulin resistance, a hallmark of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Impaired AS160 activity contributes to reduced glucose uptake by target cells, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. Its proper functioning is vital for metabolic health and preventing related disorders.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of AS160?

Accepted Answer

AS160 exerts its effect by modulating Rab GTPase activity. Upon insulin stimulation, Akt (Protein Kinase B) phosphorylates AS160, which inhibits its GTPase-activating protein (GAP) function. This inhibition allows Rab proteins to remain active, thereby facilitating GLUT4-containing vesicle movement from intracellular stores to the plasma membrane, enabling glucose entry.

Question 5

What is the Application of AS160?

Accepted Answer

Knowledge of AS160's role provides insight into the cellular basis of insulin sensitivity and resistance, informing strategies for managing metabolic health. Research on AS160 helps identify potential therapeutic targets for improving glucose metabolism. Physical activity is known to modulate AS160 phosphorylation, highlighting a molecular link between exercise and improved insulin action.

Question 6

What is the Metric of AS160?

Accepted Answer

While not a routine diagnostic test, AS160 activity is assessed in research settings by evaluating its phosphorylation status. This involves techniques such as Western blotting on muscle or adipose tissue biopsies obtained after interventions like insulin stimulation or exercise. Changes in AS160 phosphorylation serve as a key biomarker for cellular insulin signaling efficiency.

Question 7

What is the Risk of AS160?

Accepted Answer

Direct risks associated with AS160 itself are not applicable, as it is an endogenous protein integral to normal physiology. However, dysregulation of AS160 function contributes to the pathophysiological risk of developing insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes, conditions with substantial health consequences if not appropriately managed. Misinterpretation of its cellular role could lead to incomplete clinical assessments.

AS160

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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