Which cellular transporter helps facilitate bringing glucose into the cell?

GLUT4 is a key transporter responsible for facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, particularly in response to insulin. It is predominantly found in adipose (fat) tissue and skeletal muscle cells. When insulin levels rise, such as after a meal, GLUT4 is translocated to the cell membrane from intracellular storage sites, allowing for increased glucose absorption from the bloodstream into the cells. This process plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels and providing energy for cellular functions.

While other transporters, such as GLUT1, GLUT3, and SGLT1, also play roles in glucose transport, they operate under different conditions or have different primary functions. For example, GLUT1 is present in many tissues and facilitates basal glucose uptake, while GLUT3 is particularly important in neurons. SGLT1 is a sodium-glucose cotransporter primarily involved in glucose absorption in the intestines and kidneys but not directly associated with insulin-mediated glucose uptake.

Thus, GLUT4 is specifically the transporter that is closely linked to insulin action and is critical for glucose regulation in response to feeding.