Gene ACE
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Also known as
ACE1, CD143, DCP, DCP1Overview
The ACE gene encodes the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a metalloproteinase that plays a key role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). ACE converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor and stimulator of aldosterone secretion. This process increases blood pressure and leads to water and electrolyte retention. ACE inhibitors, a class of drugs that block the activity of ACE, are widely used to treat hypertension, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions. Some genetic variations of the ACE gene have been associated with an increased risk of hypertension and myocardial infarction. The ACE gene also has a deletion/ insertion polymorphism that is associated with different plasma ACE levels, which has been linked to various diseases such as hypertension, diabetic nephropathy and cardiovascular disease.