Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and hepatic SARS-CoV-2 infection: Regulation, association, and therapeutic implications.

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters host cells via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Mounting evidence has indicated the presence of hepatic SARS-CoV-2 infection and liver injury in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Understanding the mechanisms of hepatic SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial for addressing COVID-19-related liver pathology and developing targeted therapies. This editorial discusses the significance of ACE2 in hepatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, drawing on the research by Jacobs et al. Their findings indicate that hepatic ACE2 expression, frequency of hepatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, and severity of liver injury are elevated in patients with pre-existing chronic liver diseases. These data suggest that hepatic ACE2 could be a promising therapeutic target for COVID-19.