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Might renin-angiotensin system blockers play a role in the COVID-19 pandemic?

Allegra Battistoni1, Massimo Volpe1,2

  • 1Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome.

European Heart Journal. Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy
|April 15, 2020
PubMed

Insights

The scientific community is investigating how SARS-CoV-2 enters host cells via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This editorial explores the hypothesis that drugs increasing ACE2 expression may influence COVID-19 spread and symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Virology and Pathogenesis
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has led to the COVID-19 pandemic, causing significant global health challenges.
  • Understanding viral mechanisms, including host cell entry and pathogenesis, is crucial for developing effective countermeasures.
  • SARS-CoV-2 utilizes the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor for cellular entry.

Discussion:

  • A key hypothesis suggests that drugs modulating ACE2 expression could impact SARS-CoV-2 transmission and disease severity.
  • This editorial reviews current evidence regarding the role of ACE2 in viral spread and COVID-19 symptomatology.
  • Investigating the complex interplay between ACE2-modulating therapies and viral infection is essential.

Key Insights:

  • SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells is mediated by the ACE2 receptor.
  • The potential influence of ACE2-upregulating drugs on COVID-19 progression warrants further investigation.
  • The scientific community is actively researching viral mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions.

Outlook:

  • Future research should focus on elucidating the precise mechanisms by which ACE2 expression affects viral pathogenesis.
  • Clinical studies are needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ACE2-modulating agents in the context of COVID-19.
  • Continued investigation into host-virus interactions will guide therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 and future viral threats.
Keywords:
HypertensionRAS systemSARS-CoV-2

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