ACE2

ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) is a protein found on the surface of certain cells in the body, including those in the lungs, heart, and intestines. It plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Importantly, ACE2 also serves as the entry point for the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. The virus binds to ACE2 receptors to infect cells. Understanding ACE2 helps explain how the virus infects humans and why certain tissues are more affected during COVID-19 illness.