GULP1 enhances GLUT4 translocation by counteracting ACAP1-ARF6 inhibition

The molecular underpinnings of obesity-induced insulin resistance, a key driver of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), remain incompletely understood, limiting targeted therapies. While our prior work revealed that miR‑548ab impairs glucose homeostasis by downregulating GULP1, the precise mechanism by which GULP1 regulates insulin sensitivity, particularly through the GLUT4 trafficking machinery, is unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the novel function and molecular basis of GULP1 in controlling insulin-stimulated GLUT4 translocation and systemic glucose metabolism.

Bioinformatics analysis predicted interactions between GULP1 and GLUT4 vesicle regulators (ACAP1, ARF6). In vitro and in vivo models were used to assess GULP1's effects on glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation. Insulin resistance was evaluated via glucose tolerance tests and insulin sensitivity assays. Mechanistic studies investigated how GULP1 promotes insulin-mediated GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane by alleviating ACAP1-induced inhibition of ARF6 activity.

GULP1 significantly enhanced glucose uptake in adipocytes and muscle cells by promoting GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane. In obese mice, GULP1 overexpression improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. Mechanistically, GULP1 counteracted ACAP1's inhibition of ARF6 activity, thereby facilitating insulin-stimulated GLUT4 trafficking.

GULP1 can bind to ACAP1 and ARF6, and alleviate the inhibitory effect of ACAP1 on ARF6 activity, thereby enhancing insulin-mediated glucose uptake and improving insulin sensitivity in obese mice. This study reveals a novel mechanism of GULP1 in glucose metabolism and provides a new therapeutic target for treating obesity-related metabolic diseases.