GLUT-1 Overexpression in Neoplastic Cells

The aim of this literature review is to present the current state of knowledge on the basis of research on the structure, regulation, and influence of GLUT-1 protein overexpression in the diagnosis and therapy of cancer. For this purpose, the search engine for information on the presented issue was searched in the PubMed online databases. Based on the available data from 100 different publications, attempts were made to prove the influence of GLUT-1 overexpression on the appearance of various types of cancer. As a result of the analysis, it was found that the basic feature of neoplastic cells is the acceleration of glucose metabolism combined with the inhibition of the oxidative phosphorylation process. The increased rate of glycolysis compensates for the slight increase in the energy of anaerobic respiration, which allows cancer cells to continue their uncontrolled growth and proliferation processes. It is mediated by glucose transporters called GLUT-1 for increased cellular glucose uptake. Overexpression of GLUT-1 proteins, in particular those regulated by hypoxic states, has been described in many types of cancer. Numerous reports indicate a correlation between the level of GLUT-1 expression and the degree of malignancy of the tumor. Regulation of GLUT-1 levels is a major factor influencing glucose metabolism in cancer cells, making it a potential chemotherapy target.