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Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition: prospects for the future
B Jackson1, F A Mendelsohn, C I Johnston
1University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) distribution was mapped in animals using radiolabeled inhibitors. ACE inhibitors prevent heart hypertrophy and may enhance cognition, with targeted therapies showing organ-specific effects.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a key enzyme in the renin-angiotensin system.
- ACE is a dipeptidyl carboxydipeptidase with widespread tissue distribution.
- Understanding ACE distribution is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map the distribution of ACE in normal and diseased animal models.
- To investigate the tissue-specific effects of ACE inhibitors.
- To explore the potential of organ-targeted ACE inhibitor therapies.
Main Methods:
- Computer analysis of radiolabeled ACE inhibitor binding.
- Tissue distribution studies in normal and disease models.
- Evaluation of chronic ACE-inhibitor therapy effects.
Main Results:
- ACE is present in the myocardium, brain, testis, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract.
- Myocardial ACE concentration increases with hypertrophy; ACE inhibitors prevent this.
- Oral ACE inhibitors show limited brain penetration but may enhance cognition; testicular ACE is not inhibited orally.
Conclusions:
- ACE distribution varies significantly across different organs.
- Chronic ACE-inhibitor therapy demonstrates cardioprotective effects.
- Future pharmacological developments may lead to organ-specific ACE inhibitors for diverse therapeutic applications.