Expression of glucose transporters in metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To describe the main molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of glucose transporters during metabolic syndrome. Literature review: Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial metabolic disorder associated with environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that lead to this pathology contributes to understanding the systemic changes observed and aids in the search for new treatments. The expression of glucose transporters (GLUTs) is closely linked to the regulation of glucose homeostasis in tissues. In metabolic syndrome, the regulation of GLUT expression undergoes alterations, leading to changes in glucose fluxes in tissues. Regarding GLUT4, its concentration in the membranes of adipocytes and myocytes decreases as a consequence of obesity and insulin resistance. Regarding GLUT2, its expression occurs differently in hepatocytes and pancreatic cells during metabolic syndrome, with an increase in the former and a decrease in the latter. Regarding GLUT1, its endocytosis occurs in epithelial cells in response to the hyperglycemia generated by metabolic syndrome. Final considerations: In metabolic syndrome, the regulation of GLUT expression undergoes alterations, leading to changes in glucose fluxes in tissues. These changes contribute to disturbances in glucose homeostasis and intracellular substrate metabolism, ultimately responsible for the observed functional alterations.