Glucose is transported across the cell membrane by two different types of glucose transporters: glucose-facilitated transporters and sodium-dependent glucose transport (SGLT) proteins. Regulation of SGLT activity (namely, inhibition of SGLT1 and SGLT2 activity and stimulation of SGLT3 activity) represents a potential means of managing hyperglycemia and diabetes, thus preventing complications of diabetes. The purpose of the present review is to discuss the role of SGLT proteins in the pathophysiology of diabetes and to describe the mechanisms by which these transporters may be used for glycemic control and the treatment of diabetes. The regulatory processes involved in SGLT-mediated glucose uptake are also described briefly. This information provides new insight into the complementary mechanisms involved in the regulation of SGLT-mediated glucose transport as well as a basis for further investigation.
© 2011 International Life Sciences Institute.