Angiotensin-converting enzyme

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (often abbreviated as ACE) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. ACE converts the hormone angiotensin I into the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II.

Function

The primary function of ACE is to convert angiotensin I into angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, which means it narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. It also stimulates the release of the hormone aldosterone, which promotes the retention of sodium and water in the kidneys, further increasing blood pressure.

ACE is also involved in the degradation of bradykinin, a potent vasodilator. By breaking down bradykinin, ACE indirectly increases blood pressure.

Clinical significance

Due to its role in blood pressure regulation, ACE is a target for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. ACE inhibitors are a class of drugs that inhibit the action of ACE, thereby reducing the production of angiotensin II and the degradation of bradykinin. This results in vasodilation and a reduction in blood pressure.

ACE is also involved in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. The virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, uses ACE2, a homolog of ACE, to enter cells. This has led to speculation about the potential impact of ACE inhibitors on COVID-19, but the relationship is currently not fully understood.

See also

• Renin–angiotensin system
• ACE inhibitors
• Hypertension
• Heart failure
• COVID-19