ACE2

Overview of the ACE2 enzyme and its role in the human body

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. ACE2 is a zinc metalloprotease that is involved in the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin 1-9 and angiotensin II to angiotensin 1-7.

Function

ACE2 is primarily expressed in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves as a counter-regulatory enzyme to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) by degrading angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, into angiotensin 1-7, which has vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties.

Clinical significance

ACE2 has gained significant attention due to its role as the entry receptor for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The virus binds to ACE2 on the surface of host cells, facilitating viral entry and infection. This interaction has implications for COVID-19 pathogenesis and potential therapeutic interventions targeting the ACE2-SARS-CoV-2 interaction.

Research and therapeutic potential

Research is ongoing to explore the therapeutic potential of modulating ACE2 activity in various diseases, including hypertension, heart failure, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ACE2 activators and recombinant ACE2 are being investigated as potential treatments to mitigate the effects of excessive angiotensin II and enhance the protective effects of angiotensin 1-7.

See also

• Renin-angiotensin system
• SARS-CoV-2
• COVID-19
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme

External links

• ACE2 entry in UniProt
• ACE2 gene information at NCBI