Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Production and Regulation
Main Sources and Physiological Role of ACE
- Vascular endothelial cells are the primary cell type responsible for producing Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE), which is predominantly expressed throughout the body and functions as an ecto-enzyme facing the vascular lumen 1, 2, 3
- ACE is concentrated in the fetal circulation, particularly in endothelial cells, with incremental protein expression throughout pregnancy, playing a crucial role in placentation, trophoblast invasion, and spiral artery remodeling 1, 2, 3
- ACE is a key enzyme in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which regulates blood pressure, fluid-electrolyte balance, and cardiovascular function, according to the American Heart Association 3, 4
- The incremental ACE expression in fetal endothelial cells throughout pregnancy enhances angiotensin II production in placental vessels, supporting angiogenesis and fetal perfusion 2
Clinical Significance and Regulation of ACE
- Estrogens can regulate ACE expression and activity, particularly during pregnancy, as suggested by the European Society of Cardiology 5
- ACE inhibitors are cornerstone treatments for cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, heart failure, and post-myocardial infarction care, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology 4
- ACE2, a homolog of ACE, has been identified as the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 6