Computational studies of GLUT transporters: some insights into the glucose transport machinery of human cells

Prof. Carmen Domene-Núñez Professor of Computational Chemistry, University of Bath, United Kingdom (ospite di Prof. Matteo Masetti)

  • Data: 03 maggio 2024 dalle 14:00 alle 16:00

  • Luogo: Aula A Farmacologia, via Irnerio 48, Bologna BO

Il seminario si svolgerà in presenza e in lingua inglese

ABSTRACT 

Glucose is a vital source of energy for cells, and its transportation into cells is crucial for various physiological processes, including cellular respiration and metabolism. GLUT transporters, a family of membrane proteins also known as glucose transporters, facilitate the passage of glucose across cell membranes. These transporters have different affinities for glucose and exhibit different tissue distributions. The most well-known member of this family is GLUT1, which is found in various tissues and plays a fundamental role in glucose uptake, particularly in cells that have a constant need for glucose, such as red blood cells and the blood-brain barrier. Through selected examples from our work carried out using computer simulation, I will provide an overview of the current knowledge we have about transport and selectivity in this family of transporters.