Glucose Transporters and Insulin Action — Implications for Insulin Resistance and Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Insulin was discovered more than 75 years ago, but only recently have we begun to understand the mechanisms by which insulin promotes the uptake of glucose into cells. This review discusses recent advances, their contribution to our understanding of the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, and their implications for the design of new therapies to prevent and treat diabetes and its complications.Role of Glucose Transporters in Maintaining Glucose HomeostasisCarbohydrates, and glucose in particular, are an important source of energy for most living organisms. Tissues such as the brain need glucose constantly, and low blood concentrations of glucose can cause . . .