ACE and ACE2 expression in normal and malignant skin lesions

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is primarily known for cardiovascular regulation.
• RAS components are implicated in cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and carcinogenesis.
• Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC), including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are highly prevalent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immunohistochemical expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and Ki-67.
• To analyze these markers in normal skin, actinic keratosis, and NMSC archival samples.

Main Methods:

• Immunohistochemistry was used to detect ACE, ACE2, and Ki-67.
• Archival skin samples including normal skin, actinic keratosis, BCC, and SCC were analyzed.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare marker expression levels.

Main Results:

• ACE immunoreactivity was found in 99% of all examined skin lesions, including normal skin and NMSC.
• Significantly higher ACE expression was observed in normal skin compared to BCC and SCC.
• ACE expression was also higher in BCC than in SCC.
• ACE2 immunoreactivity was present in normal skin's basal epidermis and sebaceous glands but absent in NMSC.

Conclusions:

• ACE expression patterns differ between normal skin and NMSC, suggesting a role in skin cancer development.
• The absence of ACE2 in NMSC warrants further investigation into its role.
• These findings highlight the potential involvement of the skin RAS in the pathogenesis of malignant skin lesions.