Angiotensin Converting Enzyme

Overview

Angiotensin converting enzyme is known as ACE. It is a membrane bound metalloproteinase and converts Angiotensin 1 to Angiotensin 2.

Fvasconcellos 2006, Spacefilling models of angiotensin I (left) and angiotensin II (right).

It is very important in the Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS). ACE is predominantly expressed on epithelial cell membranes in the pulmonary ciculation and this is therefore, the site of action of the ACE inhibitor drugs.