Final answer:
The glucose carrier of skeletal muscle is designated as GLUT4. It transports glucose into cells, a process that is initiated by insulin which leads to the fusion of GLUT4-containing vesicles with the plasma membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
The glucose carrier (GLUT) of skeletal muscle is designated as GLUT4. This protein is responsible for the transport of glucose into cells and is significant for maintaining glucose homeostasis within the body. Insulin plays a critical role by binding to a receptor in the plasma membrane, thereby causing GLUT4-containing vesicles to fuse with the plasma membrane and allowing glucose to be transported into the cell. This system is crucial for cells to have access to glucose for energy production and is particularly important in muscle cells, which require high amounts of energy for contraction.