is an important protein expressed in several human tissues, such as the heart and kidneys [1]. It plays a key role in the Renin-Angiotensin System - "RAS" - by catalyzing the conversion of angiotensin II (Ang II), promoting blood pressure regulation [2].
Another function of ACE2 is related to SARS-CoV-2 infection, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, ACE2 serves as the entry receptor for the virus [3].
Structure information
The ACE2 protein gene has 40 kb and 18 exons. Its protein has 805 amino acids with a molecular weight of 120 kDa. Here, we have a view of the . It can be divided into 4 portions: Peptidase Domain (Residues 19–615), Collectrin-like Domain (Residues 616–740), Transmembrane Domain (Residues 741–761) and Intracellular C-terminal Tail (Residues 762–805), from N-terminal to C-terminal.
The Peptidase domain is responsible for the enzymatic activity of ACE2. This domain can be divided in two subdomains: Subdomain I and Subdomain II. Together, they form a substrate-binding cleft, where is located the catalytic site. Within this site, a zinc-ion is associated with the residues His374, His378, and Glu402, which are going to perform a nucleophilic attack on the peptide bond of the substrate, leading to its cleavage.
Function
Disease
Relevance
Structural highlights
