Insulin-responsive glucose transporters - GLUT8 and GLUT4 are expressed in the developing mammalian brain

We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of insulin-responsive facilitative glucose transporter isoforms GLUT4 and GLUTS in the developing mouse brain. Employing Western blot analysis and specific antibodies. GLUT4 and GLUTS peaked during the suckling phase, Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the presence of GLUT4 mainly in neurites in sensory and motor areas of cortical and subcortical structures of the brain front P7 until adulthood. In contrast, GLUTS was found in the same anatomical structures Within neurites and cell bodies. Most striking was the presence of GLUTS in the cell bodies of the substantia nigra. We conclude that both GLUT4 and GLUTS are present in murine brain, with highest concentrations noted during the suckling phase. These insulin-responsive isoforms may have a unique role in augmenting substrate delivery under conditions of increased demand. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.