Can a human survive without ACE2?
No, a human cannot survive without ACE2. ACE2, or angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It is primarily found in the cells lining the blood vessels of various organs, especially the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
ACE2 serves as a receptor for the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. However, it is important to note that while ACE2 is a receptor for the virus, it is not the virus itself. ACE2 is a part of a complex system that helps regulate blood pressure and maintain normal lung function.
In addition to its role in COVID-19, ACE2 plays a critical role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. ACE2 counteracts the actions of another enzyme called ACE, which converts a hormone called angiotensin I into angiotensin II. Angiotensin II promotes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and increases blood pressure. ACE2 helps to break down angiotensin II, thus counteracting its effects and promoting vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and reducing blood pressure.
Furthermore, ACE2 is involved in the metabolism of a small protein called bradykinin, which helps regulate inflammation, blood vessel permeability, and pain perception. ACE2 helps to break down bradykinin, preventing excessive levels and avoiding potential complications.
Without ACE2, the body would lose its ability to modulate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system properly, leading to imbalances in blood pressure regulation and potentially causing cardiovascular problems. Additionally, the absence of ACE2 could disrupt the balance of bradykinin, resulting in increased inflammation and altered pain perception.
Therefore, the loss of ACE2 would likely have severe implications for an individual’s overall health and survival, affecting both cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
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