Angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) is a peptidyl dipeptidase enzyme that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance in the human body. ACE is predominantly present in the tissues of the lungs, kidneys, and endothelium.
The primary function of ACE is to convert the inactive angiotensin I into its active form, angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows the blood vessels, thereby increasing blood pressure. This conversion occurs through the removal of two amino acids from angiotensin I by ACE.
ACE also acts upon other substrates, such as bradykinin, a peptide that promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and decreases blood pressure. ACE breaks down bradykinin, counteracting its vasodilatory effects.
The regulation of blood pressure is vital for maintaining overall cardiovascular health. Imbalances in ACE activity can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure), both of which have detrimental effects on various organs.
Given the importance of ACE in blood pressure regulation, ACE inhibitors are widely prescribed medications for hypertension treatment. These medications inhibit ACE activity, resulting in reduced levels of angiotensin II and increased levels of bradykinin, ultimately leading to the widening of blood vessels and decreased blood pressure.
In summary, angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. It also plays a role in breaking down bradykinin, a vasodilator. Imbalances in ACE activity can lead to hypertension or hypotension. ACE inhibitors are commonly
