Final answer:
Insulin initiates a biochemical cascade that translocates GLUT4 transporters to cell membranes, increasing glucose uptake from the blood and reducing blood glucose levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormone insulin plays a critical role in the regulation of glucose levels within the body. When insulin binds to its specific receptors on cell membranes, it initiates a cascade of biochemical reactions. One of the key effects of this cascade is the translocation of GLUT4, a glucose transporter, to the cell membrane, significantly increasing the cell's capacity to absorb glucose from the blood through facilitated diffusion. This process is essential for reducing blood glucose levels post-meal and is impaired in conditions such as type 2 diabetes.