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Physiological roles of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
U Danilczyk1, U Eriksson, G Y Oudit
1Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, 620 University Avenue, Toronto M5G 2C1, Ontario, Canada.
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|November 19, 2004
Summary
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance, particularly in the heart and kidneys. Its distinct function from ACE offers new therapeutic targets for cardiovascular and diabetic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a homologue of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key component of the renin-angiotensin system.
- ACE2 exhibits unique metallocarboxypeptidase activity and is primarily expressed in cardiac blood vessels and kidney tubular epithelia.
- Its restricted tissue distribution suggests a specialized physiological role in regulating blood pressure, blood flow, and fluid balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physiological function and significance of ACE2.
- To explore ACE2's role as a potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and diabetic complications.
Main Methods:
- Gene mapping of the ace2 gene to quantitative trait loci associated with hypertension susceptibility in rats.
- Analysis of ACE2 messenger RNA and protein levels in the kidneys of diabetic and pregnant rats.
Main Results:
- The ace2 gene is linked to hypertension susceptibility.
- ACE2 acts as a negative regulator of ACE in the heart.
- ACE2 expression is significantly regulated in the kidneys during diabetes and pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- ACE2 possesses a distinct physiological role and specificity compared to ACE.
- ACE2 represents a promising new target for drug discovery in treating cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetic complications.