Active transport uses cellular energy (usually ATP) to move molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient. This is different from passive transport, where molecules simply diffuse down the gradient without energy input.

Active transport is a cellular process that moves molecules across a membrane against their concentration gradient (from an area of low concentration to high concentration). Unlike passive transport, this "uphill" movement requires energy, usually in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).

This is crucial for muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release, and cell signaling.

Glucose is often used as the classic “passive transport” example via GLUT transporters, but , glucose is reabsorbed via secondary active transport:

| Category | Specific Molecules | Transport Type | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | $Na^+$, $K^+$, $Ca^2+$, $H^+$, $Cl^-$ | Primary Active Transport (Direct ATP use). | | Energy Substrates | Glucose, Galactose | Secondary Active Transport (uses Na+ gradient). | | Building Blocks | Amino Acids, Nucleosides | Secondary Active Transport . | | Waste/Toxins | Urea, Bile salts, Drug metabolites | Primary Active Transport (ABC Transporters). | | Drugs | Doxorubicin, Digoxin, Methotrexate | Primary Active Transport (Efflux pumps). |