Role of Glucose Transporters in Drug Membrane Transport

Abstract

Background: Glucose is the main energy component of cellular activities. However, as a polar molecule, glucose cannot freely pass through the phospholipid bilayer structure of the cell membrane. Thus, glucose must rely on specific transporters in the membrane. Drugs with a similar chemical structure to glucose may also be transported through this pathway.

Methods: This review describes the structure, distribution, action mechanism and influencing factors of glucose transporters and introduces the natural drugs mediated by these transporters and drug design strategies on the basis of this pathway.

Results: The glucose transporters involved in glucose transport are of two major types, namely, Na+-dependent and Na+-independent transporters. Glucose transporters can help some glycoside drugs cross the biological membrane. The transmembrane potential is influenced by the chemical structure of drugs. Glucose can be used to modify drugs and improve their ability to cross biological barriers.

Conclusion: The membrane transport mechanism of some glycoside drugs may be related to glucose transporters. Glucose modification may improve the oral bioavailability of drugs or achieve targeted drug delivery.

Keywords: Glucose transporter; Na+-glucose transporter; blood-brain barrier; drug design; intestinal absorption; membrane transport; prodrug.