Final answer:
GLUT2 is the glucose transporter that transports glucose into beta cells when blood glucose levels rise, triggering insulin release to lower the glucose levels. It differs from GLUT4, which responds to insulin in adipose and muscle cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
When blood glucose levels rise, the glucose transporter that transports glucose into the beta cells is GLUT2. This transporter is present on the surface of beta cells in the pancreas and plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood sugar levels. As blood glucose levels increase, GLUT2 transports glucose into the beta cells, which triggers the release of insulin. Insulin then promotes the uptake of glucose by various cells in the body, lowering blood glucose levels back to normal.
The role of GLUT2 is different from that of GLUT4, which is another type of glucose transporter. GLUT4 is found primarily in adipose (fat) tissue and muscle cells. It is stored in vesicles and is translocated to the cell membrane in response to insulin, facilitating the uptake of glucose into these cells. This process is vital in maintaining glucose homeostasis, especially after eating when blood glucose levels are high.