Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) Protein

Background

Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a transmembrane protein that serves as a key regulator of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by catalyzing the conversion of angiotensin II (a potent vasoconstrictor) into angiotensin 1-7, which has vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects. ACE2 is highly expressed in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular and pulmonary homeostasis. Beyond its enzymatic function, ACE2 gained significant attention as the cellular entry receptor for the SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses, where it facilitates viral binding and internalization via interactions with the viral spike (S) protein. Dysregulation of ACE2 expression has been implicated in conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, acute lung injury, and COVID-19-related complications. Therapeutic strategies targeting ACE2, such as recombinant soluble ACE2 and RAS modulators, are being explored to counteract these pathologies. ACE2's dual role in regulating vascular function and serving as a viral receptor highlights its significance in both physiology and disease.