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GLUT1

Meaning

GLUT1, or Glucose Transporter Type 1, is a ubiquitous membrane protein responsible for the constitutive, basal uptake of glucose across the plasma membranes of various cell types, operating independently of insulin signaling. It is critically important for supplying metabolic fuel to cells that require a constant, uninterrupted supply of glucose, such as erythrocytes and the endothelial cells forming the blood-brain barrier. This transporter ensures a fundamental level of cellular energy metabolism is maintained even during periods of low circulating insulin.