Single nucleotide polymorphisms in 5'-UTR of the SLC2A4 gene regulate solute carrier family 2 member 4 gene expression in visceral adipose tissue.

Background: The glucose uptake by numerous cells like adipocytes or skeletal muscle cells requires activation of specific proteins called glucose transporters. GLUT4 content and its activation as well as SLC2A4 gene expression level are decreased in patients with type 2 diabetes. The SLC2A4 gene expression rate might be modulated by genetic variances in UTRs.