ACE

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

ACE (Angiotensin-converting enzyme)

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure. It is part of the renin–angiotensin system, which is a major target for drugs that lower blood pressure. ACE converts the hormone angiotensin I to the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. Therefore, ACE indirectly increases blood pressure by causing blood vessels to constrict.

Function[edit | edit source]

ACE is a central component of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), which controls blood pressure by regulating the volume of fluids in the body. It converts the hormone angiotensin I to the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. Therefore, ACE and its inhibitors are of great interest to medicine due to their effect on blood pressure.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

ACE inhibitors are widely used as pharmaceutical drugs in the treatment of conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetic nephropathy, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. ACE inhibitors inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, and thus lower arteriolar resistance and increase venous capacity.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


ACE Resources
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