Angiotensin-converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2)

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a protein that has recently gained attention in the study of coronaviruses. ACE2 is a membrane-bound protein that plays a critical role in the regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which is responsible for maintaining balance in blood pressure, fluid, and electrolyte homeostasis. The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, binds tightly to ACE2 receptors in human cells, facilitating viral entry and replication. This process is facilitated by the host cell protease TMPRSS2, which cleaves the viral spike protein, allowing it to bind more tightly to the ACE2 receptor, increasing viral infectivity. Research is currently underway to understand how ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in different human tissues may influence the severity of viral infection and the progression of COVID-19 disease. Recent studies have suggested that higher ACE2 expression in the respiratory tract may be a risk factor for severe infection or susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE2 is also the target of several experimental therapeutics in the treatment of COVID-19. These therapies, including recombinant human ACE2 and ACE2 mimetics, aim to inhibit viral entry and reduce disease severity in infected patients. Overall, the study of ACE2 and its interaction with coronaviruses is critical for understanding the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and developing effective treatments for current and future pandemics caused by coronaviruses.