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Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2: a key enzyme in key organs
Pasquale Pagliaro1, Cecilia Thairi1, Giuseppe Alloatti2
1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin.
Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine (Hagerstown, Md.)
|June 6, 2021
Summary
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is crucial for organ homeostasis and links the renin-angiotensin system
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Pathology
Background:
- The discovery of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in 2000 marked a significant advancement in understanding the renin-angiotensin system.
- ACE2 plays a pivotal role in connecting the classical renin-angiotensin system (angiotensin II/AT1 receptor) with its protective arm (angiotensin 1-7/Mas receptor).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on the protective functions of ACE2 in various organs.
- To provide insight into ACE2's role in the pathophysiology of coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19).
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on ACE2's role in organ homeostasis.
- Review of recent literature concerning ACE2 in the context of COVID-19.
Main Results:
- ACE2 is a key enzyme in the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system.
- ACE2 is vital for maintaining homeostasis in organs including the brain, cardiovascular system, kidneys, lungs, and digestive tract.
- Emerging literature highlights ACE2's significant role in the course of COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- ACE2 is a critical enzyme with protective functions across multiple organ systems.
- Understanding ACE2's role is essential for comprehending both normal physiology and the pathogenesis of diseases like COVID-19.
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