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ACE2: The Major Cell Entry Receptor for SARS-CoV-2

Authors :
Scialo, Filippo
Daniele, Aurora
Amato, Felice
Pastore, Lucio
Matera, Maria Gabriella
Cazzola, Mario
Castaldo, Giuseppe
Source :
Lung. December, 2020, Vol. 198 Issue 6, p867, 11 p.
Publication Year :
2020

Abstract

Despite the unprecedented effort of the scientific community, the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus has infected more than 46 million people worldwide, killing over one million two hundred thousand. Understanding the mechanisms by which some individuals are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and why a subgroup of them are prone to experience severe pneumonia, and death should lead to a better approach and more effective treatments for COVID-19. Here, we focus our attention on ACE2, a primary receptor of SARS-CoV-2. We will discuss its biology, tissue expression, and post-translational regulation that determine its potential to be employed by SARS-CoV-2 for cell entry. Particular attention will be given to how the ACE2 soluble form can have a great impact on disease progression and thus be used in a potential therapeutic strategy. Furthermore, we will discuss repercussions that SARS-CoV-2/ACE2 binding has on the renin-angiotensin system and beyond. Indeed, although mostly neglected, ACE2 can also act on [des-Arg 937]-bradykinin of the kinin-kallikrein system regulating coagulation and inflammation. Thorough comprehension of the role that ACE2 plays in different pathways will be the key to assess the impact that SARS-CoV-2/ACE2 binding has on organismal physiology and will help us to find better therapies and diagnostic tools.<br />Author(s): Filippo Scialo [sup.1] [sup.4], Aurora Daniele [sup.2] [sup.4], Felice Amato [sup.3] [sup.4], Lucio Pastore [sup.3] [sup.4], Maria Gabriella Matera [sup.5], Mario Cazzola [sup.6], Giuseppe Castaldo [sup.3] [sup.4], Andrea Bianco [...]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
03412040
Volume :
198
Issue :
6
Database :
Gale General OneFile
Journal :
Lung
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsgcl.650475571
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00408-020-00408-4