What is Glut1 Deficiency?
Glut1 Deficiency, G1D, Glut1 DS, or De Vivo Disease
Glucose Transporter Type 1 Deficiency Syndrome is a genetic disorder that impairs brain metabolism. Glucose isn’t transported properly into the brain, leaving it starving for the energy it needs to grow and function.
Glut1 Deficiency is caused by a mutation in the SLC2A1 gene, which regulates the glucose transporter protein type 1 (Glut1). Glut1 is the principal transporter of glucose, the primary source of energy, across the blood-brain barrier. More than 100 different types of mutations and deletions of this gene have been found to date in Glut1 Deficiency patients.
The impaired glucose transport associated with Glut1 Deficiency causes an array of symptoms which may vary considerably from one patient to another and can change and evolve over time. Some signs and symptoms may include seizures, movement disorders, speech and language disorders, and developmental delays. Not all patients experience all symptoms, especially in the milder phenotypes. There are currently a few hundred patients diagnosed worldwide, but experts believe there are thousands more yet to be discovered.
There is currently no cure for Glut1 Deficiency. The recommended standard treatment is a ketogenic diet, which helps improve most symptoms for most patients by giving the brain an alternate source of energy and helps optimize brain growth and development.
Key Terms in Glut1 Deficiency
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Glut1 Deficiency is caused by a mutation in the SLC2A1 gene, which regulates the glucose transporter protein type 1 (Glut1). Glut1 is the principal transporter of glucose, the primary source of energy, across the blood-brain barrier. More than 100 different types of mutations and deletions of this gene have been found to date in Glut1 Deficiency patients.
The impaired glucose transport associated with Glut1 Deficiency causes an array of symptoms which may vary considerably from one patient to another and can change and evolve over time. Some signs and symptoms may include seizures, movement disorders, speech and language disorders, and developmental delays. Not all patients experience all symptoms, especially in the milder phenotypes. There are currently a few hundred patients diagnosed worldwide, but experts believe there are thousands more yet to be discovered.
There is currently no cure for Glut1 Deficiency. The recommended standard treatment is a ketogenic diet, which helps improve most symptoms for most patients by giving the brain an alternate source of energy and helps optimize brain growth and development.
Key Terms in Glut1 Deficiency
Brochures
Professional Guide
Diagnostic Protocol
Additional Resources
Research Updates
