Epigenetic regulation of ACE2, the receptor of the SARS-CoV-2 virus

The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the receptor for the three coronaviruses HCoV-NL63, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2. ACE2 is involved in the regulation of the renin-angiotensin system and blood pressure. ACE2 is also involved in the regulation of several signaling pathways, including integrin signaling. ACE2 expression is regulated transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. The expression of the gene is regulated by two promoters, with usage varying among tissues. ACE2 expression is greatest in the small intestine, kidney, and heart and detectable in a variety of tissues and cell types. Herein we review the chemical and mechanical signal transduction pathways regulating the expression of the ACE2 gene and the epigenetic/chromatin features of the expressed gene.

Automated summary

ACE2 is the receptor for three coronaviruses and involved in regulating the renin-angiotensin system and blood pressure, as well as various signaling pathways. Its expression is regulated by two promoters, with tissue-specific differences, and is highest in the small intestine, kidney, and heart.