hexose transmembrane transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which hexose is transported across a membrane. Hexoses are aldoses with a chain of six carbon atoms in the molecule. [GOC:vw]

Hexose transmembrane transport is a crucial biological process that enables cells to uptake essential sugars like glucose and fructose from their surroundings. This process involves the movement of these sugars across the cell membrane, a selectively permeable barrier that separates the cell's interior from its external environment.

The transport of hexoses across the cell membrane is facilitated by specific transmembrane proteins known as hexose transporters. These proteins act as gates, allowing the passage of hexoses while preventing the movement of other molecules. There are two main mechanisms of hexose transport: facilitated diffusion and active transport.

**Facilitated diffusion** is a passive process driven by the concentration gradient of the hexose. When the concentration of hexose is higher outside the cell than inside, the transporter protein binds to the hexose molecule on the extracellular side of the membrane. This binding induces a conformational change in the protein, allowing the hexose to move across the membrane and into the cell. This process does not require energy expenditure by the cell.

**Active transport**, on the other hand, is an energy-requiring process that moves hexoses against their concentration gradient, meaning from a lower concentration area to a higher concentration area. This is achieved through the use of specialized transporter proteins coupled with energy sources such as ATP. An example of active transport is the sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) system, which uses the energy derived from the inward movement of sodium ions to drive the uptake of glucose into the cell.

The transport of hexoses is essential for cellular function, as these sugars serve as the primary energy source for many metabolic processes. Glucose, for example, is used by cells to produce ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. Fructose is also utilized by the liver for glycogen synthesis and energy production.

Overall, the hexose transmembrane transport system plays a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by ensuring the uptake of essential sugars, thereby supporting fundamental cellular processes.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (17)