Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 in the kidney

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Nephrology
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a critical regulator within the renin-angiotensin system (RAS).
• ACE2 counterbalances angiotensin II's vasoconstrictive effects by degrading it and producing the vasodilator angiotensin 1-7.
• ACE2 is abundant in healthy kidneys, particularly proximal tubules, co-localizing with ACE and angiotensin receptors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of ACE2 in kidney health and blood pressure regulation.
• To explore the consequences of reduced renal ACE2 expression in kidney disease and hypertension models.
• To assess the impact of ACE2 modulation on angiotensin II responsiveness and blood pressure control.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of ACE2 expression in healthy and diseased kidneys.
• Examination of experimental models with reduced or deficient ACE2.
• Evaluation of ACE2 overexpression effects in hypertensive models.
• Assessment of renal damage, albuminuria, and blood pressure in various experimental conditions.

Main Results:

• Kidney disease and nephrectomy correlate with decreased renal ACE2 expression, potentially increasing angiotensin II's detrimental effects.
• ACE2 deficiency exacerbates experimental kidney damage and albuminuria.
• Reduced ACE2 expression is observed in many hypertension models.
• ACE2 overexpression improves blood pressure control and reduces angiotensin responsiveness in states of RAS activation.

Conclusions:

• ACE2 is vital for maintaining kidney homeostasis and regulating blood pressure.
• Diminished ACE2 function contributes to kidney damage and hypertension.
• Therapeutic strategies targeting ACE2 may offer benefits for kidney and cardiovascular diseases.