**Core Concept**
Insulin-dependent glucose transport is a vital process by which cells take up glucose from the bloodstream. This process is mediated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, which plays a crucial role in glucose homeostasis. The insulin signaling pathway is a complex process involving multiple receptors, enzymes, and transcription factors.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Insulin binds to the insulin receptor (IR) on the surface of cells, triggering a cascade of intracellular signaling events. The insulin receptor is a tyrosine kinase receptor that, upon insulin binding, undergoes autophosphorylation and activates downstream signaling pathways. One of the key downstream effectors of insulin signaling is the glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) in muscle and fat cells. GLUT4 is a transmembrane protein that facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cell.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it doesn't specify the correct mechanism of insulin-dependent glucose transport.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it implies that insulin-independent glucose transport is the primary mechanism, which is not the case.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it doesn't accurately describe the process of insulin-dependent glucose transport.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that insulin resistance, a condition in which cells become less responsive to insulin, is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. This can lead to impaired glucose uptake and increased blood glucose levels.

**Correct Answer: D. GLUT4**