Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2): A Target for Novel Drug Development

The renin-angiotensin system is involved in maintaining the body’s homeostasis across various functions. Its primary significance lies in blood pressureBlood pressure maintenance and cardiovascular functions, well-recognized for which many drug classes—such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), direct renin inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers (AT blockers)—are widely used to manage diverse cardiovascular complications. The identification of ACE2 within the RAS led to the discovery of the non-classical RAS pathway. This pathway involves ACE2 activation, converting Angiotensin II to Angiotensin (1–7), which predominantly interacts with MAS receptors, countering the effects mediated by ACE. During the COVID-19COVID-19 crisis, the role of ACE2 gained renewed attention among scientists, particularly in deciphering its downstream signaling effects. Research has extensively explored the role of ACE2 in several diseases such as hypertensionHypertension, cardiac remodelingCardiac remodeling, strokeStroke, diabetesDiabetes, obesityObesity, depressionDepression, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’sParkinson’s disease. Consequently, both ACE2 activatorsACE2 activators and inhibitors have been identified recently. However, as of now, no specific molecule has been approved to target ACE2 for treating diseases. The COVID-19 pandemicCOVID-19 pandemic has reignited researchers’ interest in studying ACE2 signaling, shedding light on its diverse roles in different diseases. Consequently, ACE2 could emerge as an important therapeutic target for various medical conditions.