Stroke, Diabetes, or Smoking... Increase in COVID-19 Receptors

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyungsoo Park] Domestic researchers have identified the reasons why people suffering from stroke, diabetes, or who smoke are vulnerable to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's National Institute of Health announced on the 20th the research results showing that the cellular 'Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2' (ACE2) increases due to smoking, stroke, and diabetes.

Dr. Youngho Ko's team at the National Institute of Health analyzed changes in blood vessels, brain cells, and tissues exposed to stroke, diabetes, and cigarette smoke, confirming an increase in ACE2 expression.

ACE2 is a protein present on the cell membranes of various body tissues such as the lungs, heart, and arteries. It is also known as the receptor that the COVID-19 virus uses to enter human cells. Under normal conditions, ACE2 converts the vasoconstrictor 'angiotensin II' into a vasodilator, thereby lowering blood pressure.

The coronavirus binds its surface spike protein to ACE2 to penetrate and replicate inside cells. The researchers explained that having more ACE2 could be more dangerous compared to patients with less ACE2.

As part of the National Institute of Health's research projects, the study was conducted. The research results were published in the latest issue of the Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications journal.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.