Characterization of the glucose transporter from rat brain synaptosomes

Our goal was to characterize the glucose transporter in synaptosomes and to compare it to the different forms of transporter already identified. Cross-reactivity with antibodies to the human erythrocyte transporter, Km of glucose uptake, reversibility of NEM inhibition of transport, and insulin sensitivity were all examined. Immunoblotting showed a band at Mr 40,000, and the Km of glucose uptake was determined to be about 4 mM. Treatment with NEM caused irreversible inhibition of glucose uptake, while incubation with insulin failed to stimulate uptake. The results suggest that the transporter in synaptosomes resembles the human erythrocyte transporter.